More than 30 years ago, 'The Simpsons' addressed workers' rights in the iconic 1993 episode 'Last Exit to Springfield.' Fast forward to the present day, the show is revisiting the theme of unions in the upcoming episode 'Night of the Living Wage.' The episode's writer, who also served as a Writers Guild strike captain during last year's strike, drew inspiration from the challenges faced by workers in the modern gig economy.
In 'Last Exit to Springfield,' Homer led a strike to protect the workers' dental plan at the nuclear power plant. This time, Marge takes center stage as she joins a food delivery app called 'GimmeChow' to cover a hefty veterinarian bill. However, she soon discovers that the workers are overworked and their overtime pay is being withheld, prompting her to organize a union.
The episode sheds light on the exploitation of workers in the gig economy, particularly in ghost kitchens and app-based services. The writer aimed to highlight the struggles faced by workers in the face of corporate greed and the challenges of unionizing in today's landscape.
The storyline for 'Night of the Living Wage' was conceived before the Writers Guild strike, but its themes became even more relevant in light of the labor movements that followed. The episode resonated with the show's production staff, many of whom are still awaiting updates on contract negotiations.
The episode's timely message reflects the ongoing labor disputes in Hollywood and the broader conversation around workers' rights. By addressing these issues through the lens of the beloved animated series, the writer hopes to spark conversations and raise awareness about the realities of modern-day labor struggles.
'Night of the Living Wage' is set to air on Sunday, April 7, on Fox, featuring guest star Jason Mantzoukas. The episode serves as a poignant commentary on the challenges faced by workers in the gig economy and the importance of collective action in advocating for fair treatment and wages.
