In a significant character development for Lisa Simpson, the beloved animated series The Simpsons owes a notable shift in her narrative to actor Richard Gere. His guest appearance in the Season 13 episode titled “She of Little Faith” not only brought humor and heart but also introduced themes of Buddhism that have persisted in the series.
The episode opens dramatically with Homer Simpson inadvertently destroying Springfield’s church while launching a rocket. In the wake of the destruction, the church council seeks funding from the wealthy yet malevolent Mr. Burns, who reconstructs the church adorned with intrusive electronic advertisements. This commercialization prompts Lisa to renounce Christianity and embark on a quest for a new faith. Her journey leads her to a Buddhist temple, where she encounters Gere’s character, who helps her explore the core principles of Buddhism.
Despite being released after what many fans consider the show’s “Golden Age,” “She of Little Faith” captures the essence of The Simpsons with its signature mix of satire and emotion. The episode humorously features absurd advertisements in Burns’ church, including a “Godcam” reminiscent of a sports event “Kiss Cam.” Yet, it also delves into Lisa’s spiritual crisis, as Marge Simpson struggles to bring her daughter back to Christianity.
Gere’s influence extended beyond his on-screen performance; he played a pivotal role in shaping the episode’s direction. In the official DVD commentary, showrunner Al Jean disclosed that Gere made three specific requests before agreeing to guest star. He insisted that Buddhism be portrayed respectfully, that Lisa’s conversion remain permanent, and that the phrase “Free Tibet!” be included in the dialogue. While only the first two requests were fully met, Gere himself voiced the third during a later episode, “I’m Spelling As Fast As I Can.”
The portrayal of Buddhism in “She of Little Faith” is handled with care, showcasing Lisa’s growth as she learns about compassion and understanding, even amid familial conflict. This respectful depiction resonates with audiences, especially during a pivotal moment when Lisa experiences a panic attack amid attempts by her family to revert her back to Christianity. Gere’s guiding words emphasize love and compassion—key tenets of Buddhism.
While Gere’s influence is significant, he is not the only guest star to leave a lasting impact on Lisa Simpson’s character. In Season 7’s “Lisa the Vegetarian,” Paul McCartney also contributed to a major transformation. Following a heartwarming encounter with a lamb, Lisa decides to adopt vegetarianism, leading to humorous clashes with her family. McCartney agreed to appear on the condition that her vegetarianism would be a permanent aspect of her identity, a request that the show has honored consistently.
Lisa’s episodes often challenge norms and explore social issues, making them some of the most memorable in the series. With Richard Gere’s contribution, fans can appreciate the profound changes in her character, marking a shift that has shaped her identity as both a Buddhist and a vegetarian.
As The Simpsons continues to evolve, the influence of guest stars like Richard Gere and Paul McCartney highlights the show’s commitment to exploring diverse themes and character development, ensuring its relevance in a changing world. Since its debut on December 17, 1989, the series has remained a cornerstone of animated television, continuously pushing boundaries and engaging audiences across generations.