Growing up in Quebec, Joshua Biasotto developed a deep affection for watching the French-dubbed version of The Simpsons, embracing its eclectic characters, witty humor, and satirical view on life. His passion extended to appreciating the Quebecois dubbing process, meticulously identifying the voice actors behind each character.
However, the fate of Les Simpson was thrown into uncertainty when Corus Entertainment’s Télétoon opted not to renew the Canadian broadcast rights for the 36th season after a 35-year run. Distressed by the potential loss of this cultural gem, Biasotto swiftly launched an online petition titled Sauvons le doublage québécois des Simpsons to rally support for preserving the Quebec dubbing of the show.
The Quebec version of the show was cherished for its incorporation of local expressions and cultural nuances, creating a unique viewing experience. The adaptation featured regional Quebec accents, such as the colloquial joual dialect associated with Montreal’s working-class, and swapped U.S. references for local counterparts, like replacing upstate New York with the Lac-Saint-Jean region in one episode.
The public outcry to safeguard Les Simpson resonated beyond nostalgia, underscoring the significance of dubbing in Quebec’s entertainment landscape. Daniel Béland, the director of the McGill Institute for the Study of Canada, emphasized the role of dubbing in providing familiar language, humor, and cultural references to Quebec audiences.
For the voice actors, the potential loss of Les Simpson was akin to a seismic event, given its integral place in Quebec’s cultural fabric. The campaign to save the show, spearheaded by Biasotto and supported by over 35,000 signatures, proved successful as Bell Media secured a deal with Disney Entertainment to revive the series, with the new season set to premiere on Noovo on September 9.
The resurgence of Les Simpson heralds a vibrant period for Quebec’s dubbing industry, with difuze, a prominent French dubbing facility, witnessing increased demand due to the proliferation of streaming content. Despite the industry’s healthy outlook, challenges like tight production schedules persist, requiring dedicated efforts from dubbing professionals.
The revival of Les Simpson not only celebrates the show’s enduring popularity but also underscores the unwavering support of its fans, showcasing the resilience and influence of Quebec’s dubbing community.