| @Joe Ball: I understand your distinction, but as much as I love the Simpsons, I have to begrudgingly continue to call them a spin off. I think that there is a lack of definition about what a spin-off is, and therefore, we have to err on the side of caution. Some of these are spin-offs of lucrative shows in order to continue the legacy while the original show continues (the CSI and Law and Order spin-offs.) Others are quirky ways to continue a franchise after the franchise has ended (Joey) In response to the topical example a) "The Simpsons Spin-Off Showcase" airing on May 11, 1997 indicates The Simpsons willingness to poke fun at spin-offs, and b) Even if the Itchy and Scratchy movie were not called a spin-off in the Simpsons universe, I am sure that someone on an internet-based quiz website's message board would certainly be grumbling about this same distinction. Dear God!!! I've become Comic Book Guy!!! Ah, well, I always knew it would come some day, might as well embrace it. Worst discussion ever! |