Feeling neglected by the Professor, Fry seeks out the attention of his other living blood relatives – no, not Cubert, but Professor Farnsworth’s mother and father, who are living happily in a coma-like virtual reality state on the Near-Death Star.He awakens them and they all end up getting along swimmingly – much to the Professor’s consternation.He’s never forgiven his parents for stifling his scientific desires, and runs away when Fry grows incredibly close to his parents.

“Cute” is the best word to describe Near Death-Wish.  It hinges on loneliness; Fry’s need for a familial connection, and the Professor’s bitterness over lacking any sort of human connection – though he has, in the past, loathed those.This episode shows that love is a pretty damn complex thing – but you can’t discount it.It’s funny in several spots – especially whenever the Professor gets a chance to act on his jealousy – but this is one of the most touching episodes of the season.

LETTER GRADE:A