The Simpsons Praised In Vatican's Newspaper L'Osservatore Romano

In an unexpected move, the Vatican's newspaper L'Osservatore Romano, which usually covers Pope's activities, has praised American cartoon TV show "The Simpsons" that turned 30 on December 17. The show's first debut was in 1989 on Fox network. Since than, the show aired 449 episodes, which makes it the longest-running comedy show in American history.But, many fans of Simpsons would probably say the show has never been too pious. The Vatican noted that religion is a topic that is often touched upon on the Simpsons, but as we all know, probably not in the way Vatican would want to see it being talked about. So, is Vatican saying that any publicity is good publicity?

In an article titled "Aristotle's Virtues and Homer's Doughnut" published in L'Osservatore Romano, the Vatican said the show has philosophical leanings and a distinctive take on religion. I guess, by that they mean Bart's confusion of Christmas as Santa's birthday.

The article also says that without Homer, "many would not know how to laugh." It notes the show's "realistic and intelligent writing." The only problem that the Vatican seems to have with the Simpsons is "excessively rude language, violence and extreme choices by the scriptwriters."

The Vatican says the cartoon exposes the flaws in modern perception of religion in showing people's confusion. In regard to Homer calling God a "Superman," the Vatican says "Homer finds in God his last refuge, even though he sometimes gets His name sensationally wrong."