In the episode, according to Fox, "Homer takes a dangerous dive into an isolated canyon on Candy Peak, but when a crashing boulder traps his arm, he channels Aron Ralston for rescue. In 'The Diving Bell and Butterball,' the first of three hair-raising Halloween tales, a venomous spider bite leaves Homer paralyzed, but when Lisa discovers Homer's ability to communicate through natural gases, he is able to express his love for Marge."

Homer's spider bite made way for a mention of the Broadway musical Spider-Man Turn Off the Dark: Homer and Marge fly over a "Rest Home For Cast of Spider-Man Turn Off the Dark."

Although the "Simpsons" poked fun at the Broadway musical, Spider-Man spokesperson Rick Miramontez said that the company was "flattered" by the shoutout.

"Everyone at Spider-Man Turn Off The Dark was extremely flattered by last night’s tribute on ‘The Simpsons,’" said Miramontez in a statement. "‘The Simpsons’ is an iconic American institution, and being part of last night’s episode was an honor and dream come true. As a token of their appreciation, the Spider-Man Turn Off The Dark producers, Michael Cohl and Jeremiah J. Harris, have invited the entire 'Simpsons' family (including, and especially Bart) on an all-expense-paid trip to New York City to sit front row at a performance of Spider-Man Turn Off The Dark, and then come backstage for a meet-and-greet with the cast and for a champagne toast (the French stuff)."