Ofcom has upheld complaints against Channel 4 for broadcasting an episode of The Simpsons featuring a hanging scene before the 9pm watershed. The episode aired at 6pm on 6 October and showed Homer Simpson hanging by a noose from a tree.
A viewer complained that the scene was “inappropriate for an early evening broadcast when families would be watching”. Channel 4 apologised for “any offence caused” and said it took its compliance responsibilities seriously.
The broadcaster stated that after receiving two complaints about the episode, edits considered necessary to correct it “were not put into effect”. It added that the episode would not be repeated before the watershed.
Ofcom noted that the plot of the episode “prominently featured strangulation”, raising issues around its scheduling. Rule 1.3 of the watchdog’s code states that children must be protected by appropriate scheduling from unsuitable material.
