http://comment.independent.co.uk/commentators/article2814697.eceWhy do Murdoch and his senior staff indulge this Simpsonian Fox-Mock? It would be interesting to know if any programmes have been suppressed. Why, for their part, do Fox viewers put up with the depiction of Homer as Homo americanus? He's a slob, a know-nothing, a bigot (when things go wrong at work, he advises, always blame the guy that doesn't speak English). If the TV screen were a mirror, this, one might think, is what many Fox viewers would see. Mon semblable, mon frère.
A number of explanations suggest themselves. Comic licence is one: the programme is like the jester at the Court of King Rupert. It can get away with saying things the courtiers can't, or daren't say. The show makes cartloads of money: so let it say what it will. Keep the accountants happy. Sticks and stones, etc.
Another more persuasive reason is suggested by a story that flew round the web six months ago. Allegedly, unaware that they were on an open mike, Murdoch and two senior Fox News commentators slagged off their loyal Fox News viewers at a benefit dinner. Murdoch was reported to have said: "Good thing our viewers are dumb as doorknobs or else we would be in trouble." Without these doorknobs, he went on to say, "Fox News would be nothing and I would not be a billionaire." After the story (never, as far as I know, authenticated) got out, Fox News released the following brief statement, "We encourage our viewers to reject anything they hear or see that does not come directly from Fox News. Fox News is the only source of information you need for Fair and Balanced™ coverage."
So there you have it. Homer Simpson? A Doorknob hero for the doorknobs of the world. But very funny.
Further viewing: 'The Simpsons Movie' opened last week
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