‘The Simpsons’ create Charlie Hebdo tribute in January 11 episode

In the midst of all of the programming that was on Sunday, in between NFL playoffs, the Golden Globes, and everything else, it was pretty easy to pass over the quick decision that “The Simpsons” made at the end of their latest episode.

With that being said, this is something that really should not be ignored. Using just a single image at the end of the installment (see below), the long-running hit, and one of the best mediums for silly mockery that exists out there, chose to give a brief tribute to Charlie Hebdo and the tragedy that occurred in Paris earlier this week. While this may have been a simple tribute drawn up at the last minute, it was certainly effective. Typically, when “The Simpsons” gets serious, you know that they are trying to stand for something.

The Charlie Hebdo attack has been a widespread topic throughout the entertainment industry over the past week, and it has taken on a variety of forms. George Clooney made reference to it at the Globes, late-night talk show hosts like Jon Stewart and Conan O’Brien commented on the significance of free speech, and we also even saw athletes show their support in some way. Social causes are one of those things that can unify all walks of life, especially when it comes to speaking out against something like terrorism, and in favor of free speech and the ability to tell a joke that is simply that.

So kudos to the producers of “The Simpsons” in the end. This little moment is going to have perhaps more of an impact than even they imagined.

What do you think about what “The Simpsons” chose to do here? Share with a comment.