The blockchain has also appeared on children’s TV: we’re talking about the long-lived animated TV series of The Simpsons, whose last episode, entitled Frinkcoin (season 31, episode 13) was recently aired discussing blockchain itself.
In the episode, Lisa has to write an essay about the most interesting person she knows and, against all odds, the most famous girl on TV chooses Professor Frink, who in the meantime has developed a crypto called Frinkcoin.
The explanation of blockchain and crypto takes place in a video within the episode made by Jim Parsons, better known as Sheldon Cooper from the series The Big Bang Theory, who quickly explains the basics of the technology.
It’s interesting to note that the explanation about blockchain and crypto also includes a reference to Bitcoin creator Satoshi Nakamoto even if no specific cryptocurrency is ever mentioned in the whole video. Of course, there was also a joke about Satoshi’s real identity.
This is what was explained in the Simpsons’ episode:
“Cryptocurrency is a system that does not rely on a non-cryptocurrency central authority, but instead relies on a non-centralized consensus of cryptocurrency ownership. Using the word “cryptocurrency” repeatedly while defining cryptocurrency makes it seem like we have a novice’s understanding of cryptocurrency. Well that is a total pile of cryptocurrency. In this system, rules are defined for the creation of additional units of cryptocurrency. They can be generated by fiat like traditional currency or just thrown around randomly or all given to LeBron. But for some reason these crypto guys are really into computers. So we have big buildings full of energy-gobbling air-conditioned computers solving useless math problems. But now we can’t have straws?! Also we know who Satoshi is, but we’re not telling.”
The message is very clear, not least because it is mentioned unequivocally that cryptocurrency will replace cash in everyday life, achieving a slow but inexorable victory.
Bitcoin and The Simpsons
It’s not the first time that there are clear references to crypto, and especially to bitcoin, within episodes of The Simpsons.
Already in 2014, bitcoin was mentioned in reference to the loss of its value due to its volatility.
In addition to The Simpsons, Family Guy – in season 14, episode 11 – also cited bitcoin when Peter told Lois how to avoid losses on bank savings.
Although these are animated series, this represents a further step towards large-scale information on blockchain technology.