In the latest episode of the long-running animated series “The Simpsons,” non-fungible tokens (NFTs) and blockchain technology took center stage once again, following a 2020 episode that introduced the show’s viewers to the world of cryptocurrencies. In this episode titled “Wild Barts Can’t Be Token,” Bart Simpson finds himself accidentally “digitized” into an NFT, setting the stage for a humorous exploration of the crypto space. The episode humorously references various iconic NFTs and artists, including the Bored Ape Yacht Club and Beeple. It also playfully highlights the speculative nature of certain NFTs, as Homer Simpson experiences a rollercoaster of emotions when he discovers the value of Bart’s NFT.
In the episode “Wild Barts Can’t Be Token,” Bart Simpson’s misadventure begins when he is inadvertently transformed into an NFT. His mother, Marge, embarks on a quest to rescue him from this unconventional digital existence, leading her into a blockchain-powered realm. This narrative serves as the backdrop for the episode’s exploration of the NFT space.
“The Simpsons” writers made sure to include references to some of the most well-known NFTs and artists in the crypto world. Notably, the Bored Ape Yacht Club (BAYC) and the renowned digital artist Beeple are among those featured in the episode. These references add a layer of authenticity to the storyline, allowing viewers familiar with the NFT space to connect with the humor and satire presented in the show.
Simpsons’ NFT episode impacts crypto market
One of the central themes in the episode is the speculative nature of certain NFTs. Homer Simpson’s initial despair upon discovering Bart’s digitization soon gives way to joy when he learns of the NFT’s staggering value of $1.5 million. This humorous take on the volatility and speculative frenzy surrounding NFTs reflects the real-world experiences of many in the crypto community.
The episode’s engagement with NFTs is a testament to the continued popularity and mainstream recognition of these digital assets. NFTs have made their way into various aspects of popular culture, and “The Simpsons” is the latest in a series of shows and events to incorporate them into their storyline.
This is not the first time “The Simpsons” has tackled cryptocurrency and blockchain technology. In a 2020 episode titled “Frinkcoin” (Season 31, Episode 13), the show introduced its audience to the world of cryptocurrencies. The episode featured Professor Frink explaining cryptocurrency to Lisa Simpson, with a cameo appearance by “TV’s most beloved scientist, Mr. Jim Parsons,” known for his role as Sheldon Cooper in “The Big Bang Theory.” This prior exploration of the crypto space set the stage for the show’s more recent foray into the world of NFTs.
The episode’s humorous take on NFTs and the subsequent references to real-world NFT projects like the Bored Ape Yacht Club had a slight impact on the market. The floor price of BAYC saw a 1.59% increase over the 24 hours following the episode’s airing, as reported by NFT Price Floor. The Mutant Ape Yacht Club’s floor price also experienced a rise of 1.83%. While these changes were relatively modest, they highlight the potential influence that mainstream media and popular culture can have on the crypto and NFT markets.
