Due to the fact that The Simpsons, which seems to have been on our screens forever, has introduced iconic characters beyond the five core members of the Simpson family, it’s not surprising that there are numerous outstanding episodes focusing on these additional characters. However, it feels a bit off to label them “side” characters because in many aspects, they hold equal importance as the family members. These episodes serve as a platform for other beloved characters like Marge, Homer, Lisa, Bart, or Maggie to take center stage.
The Last Temptation of Krust
Among the original supporting characters, Krusty the Clown stands out prominently. He’s graced numerous episodes, but arguably his most compelling story is “The Last Temptation of Krust,” from Season 9. In this tale, Krusty flops on stage with a stand-up act that was already considered inappropriate during the 1940s. Subsequently, he undergoes a transformation into a comedian reminiscent of George Carlin and regains his professional peak. However, once again, he succumbs to selling out his principles.
Who Shot Mr. Burns?
Among the most memorable TV suspense moments ever, the one that took place at the end of Season 6 was “Who Pulled the Trigger on Mr. Burns.” It appears that nearly everyone in town had a motive for taking out the owner of the Power Plant, and the majority of the episode focuses on his encounters. The initial episode of Seven 7, which eventually unveils the culprit, primarily revolves around him as well.
Flaming Moe’s
Everyone’s currently singing in their heads, “Let’s head to Flaming Moe’s,” which is a tune from The Simpsons. This episode, originally aired in Season 3, focuses on Moe, the barkeep we all know and sometimes dislike. He reinvents his bar with a flaming drink, causing trouble for characters like Lenny and Carl. Additionally, this episode introduced a band to the show, as Aerosmith made their first appearance here.
Selma’s Choice
In the fourth season, an episode titled “Selma’s Choice” revolves around Selma making a decision to avoid loneliness in death by wanting a child. Notable moments include Lisa coming back from Duff Gardens under the influence and Homer consuming a massive Hoagie for several days.
The Principal And The Pauper
Many viewers believe that the episode “The Principal And The Pauper” in Season 9 marked the point where the show began to lose its original quality or become less believable. While there are arguments supporting this viewpoint, it’s not just because the episode focused on a secondary character, Principal Skinner. Instead, it’s mainly due to the fact that the episode significantly altered his backstory, which some find implausible or far-fetched.
Radioactive Man
In contrast to its title “Radioactive Man,” the Season 7 episode primarily focuses on Milhouse. Milhouse lands a role in Rainier Wolfcastle’s latest action film, which is being shot in Springfield. Initially, Bart struggles with this development and eventually, Milhouse too loses his enthusiasm for movie-making.
Two Dozen and One Greyhounds
The title ‘Two Dozen and One Greyhounds’ suggests it’s a comedic take on the story ‘101 Dalmatians’. In an episode from Season 6, Mr. Burns fancies a coat crafted from greyhound puppies, with 25 of them being fathered by the Simpson family pet, Santa’s Little Helper.
Lady Bouvier’s Lover
In contrast to Grampa Simpson who frequently appears, Jacqueline Bouvier, Marge’s mother, doesn’t show up often. Yet, there’s an exception in the Season 5 episode titled “Lady Bouvier’s Lover,” where she becomes quite significant as she and Grampa begin dating.
22 Short Films About Springfield
In ’22 Short Films About Springfield,’ we delve into numerous non-family characters from the world of ‘The Simpsons.’ This innovative approach to an episode first appeared during the show’s seventh season, offering a unique perspective by narrating 22 distinct tales about both established and fresh characters.
Much Apu About Nothing
Hank Azaria has been the voice behind characters in “The Simpsons” since its debut. Notably, he is no longer the voice for the character Apu. This change was made because it was deemed appropriate for an Indian character to be voiced by someone other than a white actor. Despite this, there are still iconic episodes featuring the Kwik E Mart owner, such as “Much Apu About Nothing.
Sideshow Bob Roberts
Kelsey Grammer is renowned for his memorable guest roles in the series, particularly as Sideshow Bob, a notorious character who was once Krusty’s sidekick. Throughout the show’s lifespan, Sideshow Bob has been the central figure in numerous episodes, such as “Sideshow Bob Runs for Office” where he even comes close to winning an election.
Krusty Gets Kancelled
In the final episode of Season 4, titled “Krusty Gets Cancelled,” we have a timeless classic on our hands. The story revolves around Krusty the Clown, who finds himself without a TV show when his ratings plummet due to competition from a newcomer named “Gabbo.” In an effort to restore Krusty’s program, Bart and Lisa join forces.
When Flanders Failed
Poor old Ned Flanders, he not only shares a neighborhood with the Simpsons but also seems to encounter quite a bit of misfortune. In the episode titled “When Flanders Failed,” his store, The Leftorium, is compelled to shut down, leading to tough times for the Flanders family. However, the story concludes with one of the most heartwarming interactions between Homer and Ned.
Burns, Baby Burns
In Season 8, viewers discover that Monty Burns has a son named Larry, played by the renowned Rodney Dangerfield. As a tribute to one of Dangerfield’s most hilarious films, “Caddyshack,” the song “Anyway You Want It” by Journey is played during the credits.
A Milhouse Divided
Titled “A Divided Milhouse,” this episode focuses on Milhouse and his family dynamics. Following an unfortunate dinner gathering at the Simpsons’, Milhouse’s parents, Kirk and Luanne, announce their intention to separate. It’s surprising to think that this occurred during season 8, given how it seems like they’ve been divorced for a long time already.
Homer and Apu
As a dedicated fan, I can’t help but reminisce about the unforgettable 13th episode from Season 5, where I found myself rooting for Homer as he orchestrated Apu’s departure from the Kwik-E-Mart. This episode, though it ultimately contributed to the eventual retirement of this iconic character, was a true gem back then.
The Otto Show
In Season 3, “The Otto Show” revolves around everyone’s beloved palindrome, Otto the bus driver. After losing his driver’s license, initially Patty and Selma don’t show any interest in assisting him. However, it turns out that Otto’s primary motivation for regaining his license is to antagonize Homer, which eventually piques their curiosity.
Rosebud
In Season 5’s premiere, “Rosebud,” The Ramones kick off the episode with a lively rendition of Happy Birthday for Mr. Burns. Throughout the episode, the spotlight is on Burns, and surprisingly, we see him as somewhat sympathetic. This is achieved by revealing his deep longing for his childhood teddy bear, echoing the significance of the sled in Citizen Kane’s narrative – a symbolic object that holds great emotional weight in film history.
Like Father, Like Clown
In a twist of events, it is revealed that Krusty, a character known to us, is Jewish and his father – previously estranged from him – holds the title of Rabbi. This Rabbi had disowned his son for many years, causing deep pain to Bart and Lisa when they discover this in the Season 3 episode “Like Father, Like Clown.” In an effort to bring about reconciliation between the two, the siblings decide to work together on resolving their differences.
Raging Abe Simpson and His Grumbling Grandson in ‘The Curse of the Flying Hellfish’
In one of the most outrageous tales about Abe Simpson, it’s revealed in “Raging Abe Simpson and His Grumbling Grandson in ‘The Curse of the Flying Hellfish” that he was once part of an elite combat unit during World War II. Later on in Season 7, he recruits Bart to join him in retrieving a long-lost treasure, which he believes was hidden by this same squad.
Hurricane Neddy
In Springfield, Ned Flanders is known for his relaxed demeanor, but he has definite boundaries, as demonstrated in “Hurricane Neddy” when a string of misfortunes strikes poor Ned, the neighbor of the Simpsons. One of the most hilarious scenes in the series’ history from this Season 8 episode occurs when Ned erupts in anger at the entire town.
A Fish Called Selma
Troy McClure, known for his popular ’70s films such as “P is for Psycho” and “The President’s Neck is Missing!”, might be familiar to you too from his appearance as Selma’s love interest in an episode of The Simpsons during Season 7. Episodes like these remind us deeply of Phil Hartman, the talented voice actor who brought Troy McClure to life on screen.
Two Cars in Every Garage and Three Eyes on Every Fish
For quite some time, the world of local politics has been a recurring theme in “The Simpsons”. As early as Season 2, Mr. Burns attempts to enter politics by running for governor in the episode titled “Two Cars in Every Garage and Three Eyes on Every Fish.” This decision comes after Bart discovers a three-eyed fish near the power plant. Unfortunately for Mr. Burns, things do not go according to plan.
Dumbbell Indemnity
Moe has consistently had bad luck with romance, and this is evident in Season 9 when he and Homer try to find him a girlfriend, as depicted in “Dumbbell Indemnity.” The Academy Award-winning actress, Helen Hunt, appears as Moe’s short-lived girlfriend, Renee. Regrettably, the relationship doesn’t endure.
Brother from Another Series
In Season 16 of The Simpsons, Kelsey Grammer is accompanied by David Hyde Pierce, who portrays Cecil Terwilliger, Bob’s brother. Interestingly, Pierce is known for his role as Nils Crane on Frasier, which is the name given to this episode: “Brother from Another Show.
Burns Verkaufen der Kraftwerk
In my perspective as a devoted admirer of Mr. Burns, his very essence seems intertwined with his role as the power plant owner, making him the undisputed kingpin of Springfield. When he parted ways with the plant in Season 3, it didn’t take long for him to recognize that life without the authority and the awe it inspired was unbearable. Consequently, he found himself compelled to reacquire it.
The Simpsons Spin-Off Showcase
There’s no clearer illustration of episodes on The Simpsons focusing on side characters than ‘The Simpsons Spin-Off Showcase.’ As the title suggests, it explores spin-off concepts, with the standout idea being Principal Skinner and Chief Wiggum working as private investigators in New Orleans. Keep in mind that New Orleans isn’t necessarily a place for partying.
The Two Mrs. Nahasapeemapetilons
Title “The Two Mrs. Nahasapeemapetilons” from Season 9 is quite a lively episode. It contains some moments that might be considered offensive involving Apu and his wife Manjula, particularly by Homer, but it also showcases the character’s redemptive arcs effectively.
Grade School Confidential
In this timeless installment, titled “Grade School Confidential,” we delve into the romantic entanglement between Skinner and Edna Krabappel, Bart’s teacher. Their relationship blossoms after a mutual attraction at a party held at the Simpson residence. Not even Ralph Wiggum could miss them sharing a kiss in a hidden closet.
Sideshow Bob’s Last Gleaming
The PTA Disbands
In Season 6, during the episode titled “The PTA Disbands,” Ms. Krabappel and Principal Skinner had a heated disagreement rather than dating briefly as they did in Season 8. This episode featured several other characters, making it an ensemble piece within the series.
Dog of Death
In any given storyline, it’s unpredictable who might become the main focus, even the family pet like Santa’s Little Helper. In the third season episode “Dog of Death,” mounting vet bills leave the family feeling burdened, and their affection for the mutt starts to wane. Eventually, he runs off and finds himself with Mr. Burns. The cruel power plant owner turns the dog into a fearsome guard dog temporarily, until Bart manages to reunite with his cherished pet.
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2025-02-28 08:28