Music icon Paul McCartney had a specific request before agreeing to appear on The Simpsons, involving a significant change to one of its main characters.
The Simpsons has been airing for a remarkably long time, spanning 35 seasons, a feature-length film, and several specials. Throughout its run, numerous celebrities have made guest appearances, portraying either themselves or new characters.
A standout guest appearance came from Beatles legend Paul McCartney in 1995 during the show’s seventh season.
McCartney and his late wife Linda McCartney made their appearance, but not without stipulating a condition regarding Lisa Simpson. Despite potential resistance concerning Lisa, a core member of the Simpsons family, the show’s creators honored McCartney’s request.
In the episode “Lisa the Vegetarian,” Lisa decides to give up meat after encountering an adorable lamb at a petting zoo.
McCartney’s participation was contingent on the assurance that Lisa would remain a vegetarian for the series’ duration.
In an interview with G2 magazine, McCartney shared his rationale.
He remarked: “We were a bit worried that she would be a vegetarian for a week, then Homer would persuade her to eat a hot dog.”
As word spread on social media, fans of The Simpsons appreciated the decision.
One user on Reddit remarked, “So THAT’S why her being a vegetarian stayed a part of her character. I couldn’t imagine her any other way now but once upon a time lol.”
Another fan commented, “It does sit well with her character, and the writers probably took it as a suggestion.”
A third individual shared, “I became a vegan when I learned about this. I obviously didn’t realize what any of it meant as a kid. As an adult, it’s inspiring.” Another added, “For me, it’s a perfect example of notoriety put to good use!”