Morrissey hits out at The Simpsons as ‘hurtful and racist’ after being parodied in latest episode

Singer was apparently not happy at his representation in the cartoon

Morrissey has hit out at The Simpsons after The Smiths were parodied in the cartoon’s latest episode. 

The episode – titled “Panic On The Streets of Springfield” – saw Lisa dream up a new imaginary friend modelled on the band’s frontman Morrissey. 

The Imitation Game star Benedict Cumberbatch voiced the character.

After the episode aired yesterday (18 April), a lengthy statement on Morrissey’s official Facebook page criticised the programme, stating that it had taken a “turn for the worst” in recent years.

The statement read: “Surprising what a ‘turn for the worst’ the writing for The Simpson’s [sic] tv show has taken in recent years. 

“Sadly, The Simpson’s show started out creating great insight into the modern cultural experience, but has since denigrated to trying to capitalise on cheap controversy and expounding on vicious rumours.” 

It went on to address the episode specifically, adding: “But when a show stoops so low to use harshly hateful tactics like showing the Morrissey character with his belly hanging out of his shirt (when he has never looked like that at any point in his career) makes you wonder who the real hurtful, racist group is here.”

It called out the show for representing the “Morrissey character” as “racist, without pointing out any specific instances”.

“They should take that mirror and hold it up to themselves,” it continued.

The statement went on to reference the apology recently issued by actor Hank Azaria for voicing the Indian character Apu Nahasapeemapetilon.

“Simpson’s actor Hank Azaria’s recent apology to the whole country of India for his role in upholding ‘structural racism’ says it all,” it said.

It added that contrary to what the cartoon suggests, Morrissey “has never made a ‘cash grab’, hasn’t sued any people for their attacks, has never stopped performing great shows, and is still a serious vegan and strong supporter for animal rights”.

“Not surprising…… that The Simpsons viewership ratings have gone down so badly over recent years,” it concluded.

(The Simpsons / Twitter)

Morrissey has been the subject of a number of controversies over the past few years, including a 2019 performance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, during which he wore a For Britain badge.

He later reaffirmed his support for the far-right party in an interview with his nephew, which was published on his own website. During the same interview he claimed “everyone prefers their own race”.