You won’t be seeing Homer strangle Bart anymore (Picture: Disney)

The Simpsons writers have revealed that one of its most widely known gags will officially be retired going forward.

The US sitcom, currently in the middle of its 35th season, has been on TV since 1989 but Homer will not longer be strangling his son Bart because ‘times have changed’.

First introduced at the end of the series’ very first episode more than 30 years ago, the gag became one the most regular running gags on The Simpsons.

Bart would crack a wise joke or commit some kind of misdeed, and Homer would respond by shouting ‘why you little!’ before grabbing him by the throat.

Over time, the joke was expanded, with Homer strangling other characters in the same way – The Simpsons even referenced it as an outdated method of punishment.

But now it appears we won’t be seeing Homer strangle Bart ever again, with a recent episode confirming that Homer ‘doesn’t do that anymore’.

it used to be one of the most-used gags on the animated series (Picture: Disney)

The third episode of the 35th season sees Homer and Marge welcome a new family to Evergreen Terrace – Homer greets the other dad with a handshake.

When the new neighbour compliments Homer on the firmness of his handshake, he turns to Marge and says the years of ‘strangling the boy paid off’.

However, the Simpson patriarch turns back to his new friend, saying: ‘Just kidding, I don’t do that anymore – times have changed.’

Nancy Cartwright has voiced Bart since the show’s first episode (Picture: FilmMagic)

Over the years, the writers have addressed Homer’s less than adequate parenting skills on numerous occasions, but perhaps never this directly before.

In response, people who actually still watch The Simpsons praised the writers’ decision, remarking that it’s ‘considered child abuse nowadays’.

Another viewer said: ‘Homer is the gentlest and sweetest he’s ever been. As the show proceeds through its quiet silver age, a gentler tone is fine.’

Earlier this year, the iconic animated sitcom removed the cigarette machine from the background of Moe’s Tavern after being there for over 30 seasons.

Al Jean, who first worked on the show back in the 1980s and is still involved with production today, offered one lucky fan a free DVD if they could spot its absence.

The Simpsons is available to stream on Disney Plus.

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Why you little!