Best. Episodes. Ever.
by jstnchaney-31499 | created - 18 Apr 2022 | updated - 10 months ago | Publicthe absolute best episodes of The Simpsons
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1.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
Simpsons Roasting on an Open Fire
(1989)
TV-PG | 30 min | Animation, Comedy
Homer is forced to become a department store Santa when Marge spends the family's Christmas savings on removing Bart's tattoo.
Director: David Silverman | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 8,807
The episode that started one of, if not, THE greatest show of all time.
2.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
Krusty Gets Busted
(1990)
TV-PG | 30 min | Animation, Comedy
After Krusty is found guilty of robbing the Kwik-E-Mart following Homer's eyewitness testimony, Bart and Lisa set out to prove his innocence.
Director: Brad Bird | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 5,066
Featured the debut of Sideshow Bob, one of the greatest villains across any form of media.
3.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
Bart Gets an F
(1990)
TV-14 | 30 min | Animation, Comedy
Mrs. Krabappel, fed up with Bart's lackadaisical approach to his studies, gives him an ultimatum: shape up or repeat the fourth grade.
Director: David Silverman | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 5,088
Anybody who has ever struggled with grades in school will relate with this one.
4.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
One Fish, Two Fish, Blowfish, Blue Fish
(1991)
TV-14 | 23 min | Animation, Comedy
After apparently consuming poison blowfish, Homer is told that he only has 24 hours to live.
Director: Wesley Archer | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 5,269
Even though Homer obviously makes it out of this one alive, you'll still find yourself tearing up a little.
5.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
Lisa's Substitute
(1991)
TV-14 | 30 min | Animation, Comedy
Lisa has a crush on her substitute teacher; Bart decides to run for class president.
Director: Rich Moore | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 4,995
Possibly the best, and most sentimental episode focusing on Lisa.
6.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
Stark Raving Dad
(1991)
TV-14 | 30 min | Animation, Comedy
Homer accidentally lands in a mental hospital and ends up sharing a room with a white man who thinks he is Michael Jackson.
Director: Rich Moore | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 4,998
Although controversial, it's such an iconic and essential episode.
7.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
Flaming Moe's
(1991)
TV-14 | 30 min | Animation, Comedy
Moe claims a drink that Homer invented is his own, with the drink making the bar a local hot spot, but threatens his friendship with Homer.
Directors: Rich Moore, Alan Smart | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 4,659
Not a big alcohol fan, but i'd kill o try a real life Flaming Homer/Moe.
8.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
Homer at the Bat
(1992)
TV-14 | 30 min | Animation, Comedy
Homer and his co-workers qualify for the plant softball team's league final, but Mr. Burns hires nine professional MLB players in order to win a $1 million bet.
Director: Jim Reardon | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 4,722
Officially kicked off the show's golden era.
9.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
Homer the Heretic
(1992)
TV-14 | 30 min | Animation, Comedy
After attributing a relaxing Sunday to his skipping church, Homer vows to never attend service again, and forms his own religion to justify his behavior.
Director: Jim Reardon | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 5,189
A hilarious, yet respectful look at religion through the eyes of the greatest fictional character in existence.
10.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
Treehouse of Horror III
(1992)
TV-14 | 30 min | Animation, Comedy
An evil Krusty the Clown doll tries to kill Homer; Marge is captured by a giant ape who falls in love with her; Bart inadvertently raises the dead.
Director: Carlos Baeza | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 4,083
Can't go wrong with the Frogurt exchange between Homer and the shopkeeper.
11.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
Mr. Plow
(1992)
TV-14 | 30 min | Animation, Comedy
Homer opens a successful snow-plowing business, only to inspire Barney to start a rival outfit that puts him out of work.
Director: Jim Reardon | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 4,560
The episode i probably watched the most as a child.
12.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
Lisa's First Word
(1992)
TV-14 | 30 min | Animation, Comedy
While trying to coax Maggie into saying her first word, Homer and Marge talk about how Lisa spoke hers.
Director: Mark Kirkland | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 3,902
Maggie's first word at the very end is definitely the show's most wholesome moment.
13.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
Homer's Triple Bypass
(1992)
TV-14 | 30 min | Animation, Comedy
Years of poor eating habits catch up with Homer when he suffers a massive heart attack, but the family can't afford the triple bypass operation he needs.
Director: David Silverman | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 4,239
Equal parts hearts and humor (''bed goes up, bed goes down'').
14.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
Marge vs. the Monorail
(1993)
TV-14 | 30 min | Animation, Comedy
After receiving a considerable donation of money, Springfield builds a monorail system with Homer as the conductor, unaware they've just boarded a one-way train to Hell.
Director: Rich Moore | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 5,790
There is quite literally an iconic gag-per-minute in this one, which might explain why its one of the show's most beloved episodes.
15.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
I Love Lisa
(1993)
TV-14 | 30 min | Animation, Comedy
Lisa gives Ralph a Valentine's card out of pity, but soon regrets it when he develops an unwanted crush on her.
Director: Wesley Archer | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 3,689
Introduced the world to the greatest Valentine's greeting: ''I choo-choo-choose you''.
16.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
Last Exit to Springfield
(1993)
TV-14 | 30 min | Animation, Comedy
When Mr. Burns revokes the plant's dental plan, forcing Lisa to be fitted with cheap, ugly braces, Homer leads its union into going on strike.
Director: Mark Kirkland | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 5,273
This is the episode that defines The Simpsons.
17.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
Cape Feare
(1993)
TV-14 | 23 min | Animation, Comedy
After being released from prison on parole, Sideshow Bob plots to murder Bart.
Director: Rich Moore | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 5,772
With the perfect balance of humor and suspense, this is truly the best Sideshow Bob episode.
18.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
Homer Goes to College
(1993)
TV-14 | 30 min | Animation, Comedy
When a surprise inspection of the nuclear power plant reveals that Homer is not qualified to do his job, he is forced to go to college.
Director: Jim Reardon | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 4,100
Includes one of Homer's all-time greatest moments: ''I am so smart! S-M-R-T... I mean, S-M-A-R-T!''
19.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
Rosebud
(1993)
TV-PG | 30 min | Animation, Comedy
After his birthday party goes wrong, Mr. Burns begins to want his childhood toy, a teddy bear named Bobo; Homer finds that Maggie is in possession of the doll.
Director: Wesley Archer | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 4,436
One of the only episodes that humanizes Mr. Burns.
20.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
Treehouse of Horror IV
(1993)
TV-PG | 30 min | Animation, Comedy
Homer sells his soul to the Devil for a donut, Bart contends with a gremlin on the side of the school bus which only he can see, and the family discovers that Mr. Burns is a vampire.
Director: David Silverman | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 4,295
''The Devil and Homer Simpson'' is one of the all-time greatest ToH segments.
21.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
Boy Scoutz 'n the Hood
(1993)
TV-14 | 30 min | Animation, Comedy
After joining the Junior Campers while on a sugar high, Bart reluctantly invites Homer to accompany him on the group's annual father-son rafting trip, which soon goes awry.
Director: Jeffrey Lynch | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 4,027
Quite amazing to see how many goods and services Bart and Milhouse get with 20 bucks.
22.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
Homer and Apu
(1994)
TV-14 | 30 min | Animation, Comedy
Apu moves in with the Simpsons after losing his job when Homer gets ill from the contaminated food; James Woods takes over the Kwik-E-Mart.
Director: Mark Kirkland | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 3,330
''Who Needs The Kwik-E-Mart?'' is my personal favorite musical number from the show.
23.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
Lisa vs. Malibu Stacy
(1994)
TV-14 | 30 min | Animation, Comedy
Angered by the vacuous phrases her Malibu Stacy doll utters, Lisa works with Malibu Stacy's original designer to create a doll with admirable traits.
Director: Jeffrey Lynch | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 3,636
Tackles misogyny in a thoughtful, yet hilarious way that only golden-era Simpsons can master.
24.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
Deep Space Homer
(1994)
TV-14 | 30 min | Animation, Comedy
In an effort to increase the dismal television ratings for their space launches, NASA decides to send an ordinary man into space, and Homer is chosen for the task.
Director: Carlos Baeza | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 4,390
So many great moments in one: the potato chip sequence, the inanimate carbon rod, and ''I, for one, welcome our new insect overlords.''
25.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
Burns' Heir
(1994)
TV-14 | 30 min | Animation, Comedy
After a close brush with death, Mr. Burns decides to find an heir to his empire, and chooses Bart because of his truly devious nature.
Director: Mark Kirkland | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 3,540
The only thing that would've made this episode better is if they kept the deleted robotic Richard Simmons scene in.
26.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
Itchy & Scratchy Land
(1994)
TV-14 | 30 min | Animation, Comedy
A family vacation to Itchy & Scratchy Land turns disastrous when the robots malfunction and turn on the tourists.
Director: Wesley Archer | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 3,700
The first episode that pops up in die-hard Simpsons fans' heads when thinking about the show.
27.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
Treehouse of Horror V
(1994)
TV-14 | 30 min | Animation, Comedy
The family's job at Mr. Burns' country estate goes awry when Homer goes mad; Homer's attempt to repair a toaster results in inadvertent time travel; The school staff turn cannibalistic.
Director: Jim Reardon | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 5,241
The absolute best Halloween special in the history of television.
28.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
Homer Badman
(1994)
TV-14 | 30 min | Animation, Comedy
Homer is branded as a pervert after his kids' babysitter misconstrues his retrieval of a candy from the seat of her pants as a sexual advance.
Director: Jeffrey Lynch | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 4,752
An episode that only gets more and more relevant as years pass.
29.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
Homer the Great
(1995)
TV-14 | 30 min | Animation, Comedy
Homer becomes a member of a mysterious organization called the Stonecutters and is heralded as "the chosen one".
Director: Jim Reardon | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 4,475
This is he most perfect episode of any sitcom and i will die standing on that fact.
30.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
And Maggie Makes Three
(1995)
TV-14 | 30 min | Animation, Comedy
Homer recounts the story of Maggie's birth when the kids ask why there are no photos of her in the family album.
Director: Swinton O. Scott III | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 3,983
One has to be truly soulless if this episode doesn't tug at your heartstrings.
31.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
Homie the Clown
(1995)
TV-14 | 30 min | Animation, Comedy
Homer becomes a Krusty the Clown stand-in, but is mistaken for the real Krusty by the Springfield mafia.
Director: David Silverman | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 3,556
Not exactly ''Last Exit'' or ''Homer's Enemy'' quality, but it's simply a very fun episode.
32.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
Bart vs. Australia
(1995)
TV-14 | 30 min | Animation, Comedy
After refusing to pay for a collect call, Bart must travel down under to repair US-Australian political relations, but is unprepared for the punishment awaiting him.
Director: Wesley Archer | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 3,723
I find it hilarious how the crew made Australian geography and culture inaccurate simply for fun.
33.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
A Star Is Burns
(1995)
TV-14 | 30 min | Animation, Comedy
The citizens of Springfield host their own film festival, with popular movie critic Jay Sherman arriving from New York to judge.
Director: Susie Dietter | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 3,506
Four words: football in the groin.
34.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
Two Dozen and One Greyhounds
(1995)
TV-14 | 30 min | Animation, Comedy
Santa's Little Helper's new mate has puppies, and Mr. Burns schemes to steal them and make them into a coat.
Director: Bob Anderson | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 3,014
''See My Vest'' is a banger.
35.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
Lemon of Troy
(1995)
TV-14 | 30 min | Animation, Comedy
When a group of Shelbyville kids steal Springfield's sacred lemon tree, Bart and his friends venture there to get the tree back.
Director: Jim Reardon | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 3,690
Everything that makes The Simpsons great is evident in this episode.
36.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
Who Shot Mr. Burns? Part One
(1995)
TV-14 | 30 min | Animation, Comedy
After Mr. Burns steals oil from Springfield Elementary and blocks out the sun, an unknown person shoots him.
Director: Jeffrey Lynch | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 4,752
You'd be hard-pressed not to find anyone who has this in their all-time favorites list.
37.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
Who Shot Mr. Burns? Part Two
(1995)
TV-14 | 30 min | Animation, Comedy
While Mr. Burns is hospitalized, an investigation into his shooter begins; although Smithers initially suspects himself, a trace of Simpson DNA narrows down the list of possible culprits.
Director: Wesley Archer | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 4,312
see pt. 1
38.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
Bart Sells His Soul
(1995)
TV-14 | 30 min | Animation, Comedy
Bart casually sells his soul to Milhouse for $5 but soon regrets it; Moe converts his dank bar into a family restaurant.
Director: Wesley Archer | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 4,228
The most philosophical episode of The Simpsons to date.
39.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
Lisa the Vegetarian
(1995)
TV-14 | 30 min | Animation, Comedy
A trip to a local petting zoo convinces Lisa to give up meat, despite excessive pressure to convince her not to do so.
Director: Mark Kirkland | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 3,860
Brought one of the very few permanent changes to the show.
40.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
Treehouse of Horror VI
(1995)
TV-14 | 30 min | Animation, Comedy
A lightning storm causes giant advertising mascots to come to life; The children are terrorized by Groundskeeper Willie in their dreams; Homer finds himself trapped in another dimension.
Directors: Bob Anderson, David Mirkin | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 3,766
Tied with ToH V as one of the best Halloween specials of all time.
41.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
King Size Homer
(1995)
TV-14 | 30 min | Animation, Comedy
Homer intentionally gains more weight in order to qualify for disability and work from home, but soon realizes that being morbidly obese comes with its own problems.
Director: Jim Reardon | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 4,679
The most ridiculous episode (of the golden era at least), but also the most brilliant.
42.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
Mother Simpson
(1995)
TV-14 | 30 min | Animation, Comedy
After faking his own death, Homer is reunited with his mother, who harbors a deep secret.
Director: David Silverman | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 3,527
The ending of Homer and Mona saying goodbye will surely give you a sniffle or two.
43.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
Two Bad Neighbors
(1996)
TV-14 | 21 min | Animation, Comedy
Former President George Bush and his wife, Barbara, move into the Simpsons' neighborhood and soon clash with Bart and Homer.
Director: Wesley Archer | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 3,747
Brings political satire to a whole new level, and should honestly be the standard for it.
44.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
Homer the Smithers
(1996)
TV-14 | 30 min | Animation, Comedy
When Smithers is forced to take a vacation, he appoints Homer as his temporary replacement.
Director: Steven Dean Moore | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 4,117
Like with ''Homie The Clown'', it's just a fun ride without feeling groundbreaking or overly satirical.
45.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
22 Short Films About Springfield
(1996)
TV-14 | 22 min | Animation, Comedy
A series of vignettes showcasing a day in the life of various Springfield residents.
Director: Jim Reardon | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 4,143
Steamed Hams, 'nuff said.
46.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
Raging Abe Simpson and His Grumbling Grandson in 'The Curse of the Flying Hellfish'
(1996)
TV-14 | 30 min | Animation, Comedy
After surviving multiple assassination attempts by Mr. Burns to inherit a cache of artwork they stole from the Nazis, Grampa teams up with Bart to recover the paintings.
Director: Jeffrey Lynch | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 3,116
The most action-packed episode of the golden era.
47.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
Much Apu About Nothing
(1996)
TV-14 | 30 min | Animation, Comedy
Anti-immigration fever sweeps Springfield, which threatens to lead to the deportation of Apu, until Homer decides to reject the mob mentality and help him become a legal citizen.
Director: Susie Dietter | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 2,796
One of the more outspoken episodes when it comes to satire, which in this case, focuses on Xenophobia.
48.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
Summer of 4'2"
(1996)
TV-14 | 30 min | Animation, Comedy
After realizing how unpopular she is, a disillusioned Lisa sees the vacation to Ned Flanders' beach house as an opportunity to reinvent herself.
Director: Mark Kirkland | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 3,165
The peak of Lisa-focused episodes.
49.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
You Only Move Twice
(1996)
TV-14 | 23 min | Animation, Comedy
The Simpsons move to Cypress Creek, where Homer unwittingly works for a charismatic supervillain; the rest of the family struggles with the transfer.
Director: Mike B. Anderson | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 6,398
Hank Scorpio is the best one-time character the series has ever had.
50.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
Hurricane Neddy
(1996)
TV-14 | 30 min | Animation, Comedy
After a hurricane destroys Ned Flanders' house, he suffers a nervous breakdown and is forced to confront repressed problems from his childhood.
Director: Bob Anderson | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 3,879
A remarkable episode that examines what makes Flanders tick.
51.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
The Mysterious Voyage of Our Homer
(1997)
TV-14 | 30 min | Animation, Comedy
After eating insanity peppers at a chili cook-off, Homer has a hallucination of a talking coyote urging him to find his soulmate.
Director: Jim Reardon | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 3,874
One of the more surreal episodes of the golden era, which also include one of the show's best guest stars: Johnny Cash as a Space Coyote.
52.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
The Springfield Files
(1997)
TV-14 | 22 min | Animation, Comedy
Special Agents Mulder and Scully arrive in Springfield after Homer claims to have seen an alien.
Director: Steven Dean Moore | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 4,759
Drugged-up Mr. Burns is the best thing ever.
53.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
The Itchy & Scratchy & Poochie Show
(1997)
TV-14 | 30 min | Animation, Comedy
Homer is cast as Poochie, a new "Itchy and Scratchy" character designed to reverse declining ratings; a hip college student moves in with the Simpsons.
Director: Steven Dean Moore | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 2,988
The mot meta episode of the series to date and also quite possibly the funniest.
54.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
Homer's Phobia
(1997)
TV-14 | 23 min | Animation, Comedy
After Marge befriends John, a gay store owner, Homer worries that his presence will have a negative effect on Bart's sexuality.
Director: Mike B. Anderson | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 4,372
Features a great anti-homophobia message that's as relevant now more than ever.
55.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
Homer vs. the 18th Amendment
(1997)
TV-14 | 30 min | Animation, Comedy
After alcohol is banned in Springfield, Homer adopts the moniker of the "Beer Baron" to bootleg liquor, prompting an investigation from an uptight Treasury agent.
Director: Bob Anderson | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 3,640
Gave birth to Homer's greatest and most iconic quote: ''To alcohol! The cause of, and solution to, all of life's problems.''
56.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
Homer's Enemy
(1997)
TV-PG | 30 min | Animation, Comedy
Homer's laziness begets the ire of his industrious but arrogant new co-worker Frank Grimes; Bart buys a run-down factory for a dollar.
Director: Jim Reardon | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 6,842
The most universally beloved episode of The Simpsons, and for good reason. A must-watch for everyone.
57.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
The City of New York vs. Homer Simpson
(1997)
TV-PG | 30 min | Animation, Comedy
Homer must travel to New York to get his car back, which is illegally parked at World Trade Center Plaza.
Director: Jim Reardon | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 5,069
One of the funniest episodes of the series, which may or may not have unintentionally predicted 9/11.
58.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
The Cartridge Family
(1997)
TV-14 | 30 min | Animation, Comedy
After a massive soccer riot, Homer purchases a gun to protect the family.
Directors: Pete Michels, Jim Reardon | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 2,944
Expertly portrays guns in neither a positive, nor negative light.
59.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
Trash of the Titans
(1998)
TV-PG | 30 min | Animation, Comedy
Homer becomes the sanitation commissioner for Springfield. His ineptitude pollutes the town and leads to a drastic solution.
Director: Jim Reardon | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 3,221
This may be a unpopular opinion, but ''The Garbage Man Can'' > ''The Monorail Song''.
60.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
Lisa Gets an 'A'
(1998)
TV-PG | 30 min | Animation, Comedy
When Lisa cheats on a test, she has a moral crisis when her perfect score qualifies the school for grant money; Homer adopts a lobster as a pet.
Directors: Jim Reardon, Bob Anderson | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 2,480
If one somehow doesn't find The Simpsons funny, this episode will definitely change their mind.
61.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
Mom and Pop Art
(1999)
TV-PG | 30 min | Animation, Comedy
Homer becomes the talk of the Springfield art community when a failed barbecue pit he worked on is mistaken for an art project.
Directors: Jim Reardon, Steven Dean Moore | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 2,312
For having the whole sequence of Homer trying to build a barbecue pit and the famous ''Everything's coming up Milhouse'' line, you'd think this episode wouldn't be so underrated.
62.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
Guess Who's Coming to Criticize Dinner?
(1999)
TV-PG | 30 min | Animation, Comedy
When Homer is hired as a local food critic by a newspaper in Springfield, he finds himself in deep trouble after his reviews turn out to be too critical.
Directors: Jim Reardon, Nancy Kruse | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 2,141
I'd be lying if i said the poisonous eclair didn't sound fuckin amazing.
63.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
E-I-E-I-(Annoyed Grunt)
(1999)
TV-14 | 30 min | Animation, Comedy
Homer cowards out of a pistol-duel and hides out with the rest of the family on a country farm.
Directors: Jim Reardon, Bob Anderson | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 2,318
''Sneed's Feed & Seed (Formerly Chuck's)'' is the single-handedly greatest sign gag in the show's history.
64.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
Behind the Laughter
(2000)
TV-14 | 30 min | Animation, Comedy
Fans are invited to take a behind-the-scenes look at "The Simpsons," revisiting some of the most memorable experiences the family has been through.
Directors: Jim Reardon, Mark Kirkland | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 2,452
Features great satire of Hollywood, celebrity culture and The Simpsons itself.
65.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
HOMR
(2001)
TV-14 | 30 min | Animation, Comedy
An X-ray reveals a crayon lodged in Homer's brain. After the crayon is removed, Homer experiences a sudden surge in intelligence, making him closer to Lisa and isolated from his friends.
Directors: Jim Reardon, Mike B. Anderson | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 2,408
Who knew that an episode revealing the cause of Homer's stupidity could end up being so heartfelt?
66.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
Simple Simpson
(2004)
TV-14 | 30 min | Animation, Comedy
Homer becomes a costumed vigilante who uses pies for weapons after witnessing Lisa get humiliated at a competition at the state fair.
Director: Jim Reardon | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 1,689
Pie Man is probably the most iconic aspect of post-golden Simpsons.
67.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
24 Minutes
(2007)
TV-14 | 30 min | Animation, Comedy
Bart and Lisa join forces to stop the school bullies from setting off a stink bomb at the school bake sale.
Directors: Mark Kirkland, Raymond S. Persi | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 2,562
Lowkey better than the show that's being parodied.
68. The Simpsons Movie (2007)
PG-13 | 87 min | Animation, Adventure, Comedy
After Homer pollutes the town's water supply, Springfield is encased in a gigantic dome by the EPA and the Simpsons are declared fugitives.
Director: David Silverman | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 349,943 | Gross: $183.14M
Reception is certainly divided among Simpsons fans, but is generally well-received among casual viewers and newcomers to the franchise.
69.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
Eternal Moonshine of the Simpson Mind
(2007)
TV-14 | 30 min | Animation, Comedy
Homer goes to Dr. Frink to help him recover his memories from the night before, and he discovers, based on his interpretation of the memories, that Marge is having an affair.
Directors: Chuck Sheetz, Mark Kirkland | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 2,330
Would've been a satisfying end to the series if they decided so back then.
70.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
The Book Job
(2011)
TV-14 | 30 min | Animation, Comedy
Homer and Bart put together a team to author the next successful tween novel franchise and make a million dollars, but discover that they need Lisa's help to pull it off.
Directors: Mike B. Anderson, Bob Anderson | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Yeardley Smith, Nancy Cartwright
Votes: 1,887
A shining example that the HD episodes are very capable of telling brilliant and unique stories.
71.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
Holidays of Future Passed
(2011)
TV-14 | 30 min | Animation, Comedy
Thirty years in the future the Simpsons get together for Christmas. Bart and Lisa are struggling as parents to connect with their children.
Directors: Mike B. Anderson, Rob Oliver | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 2,330
If you fell off from the show at any point, this is a great series finale of sorts (which it almost actually was).
72.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
The Saga of Carl
(2013)
TV-14 | 30 min | Animation, Comedy
Homer, Moe, Lenny and Carl win the lottery, but Carl steals the ticket and leaves with the money for Iceland.
Directors: Chuck Sheetz, Mike B. Anderson | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 1,274
A heartfelt story centering on friendship, and gives some great character development on Carl's end.
73.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
Steal This Episode
(2014)
TV-14 | 30 min | Animation, Comedy
Fed up with the high price of Hollywood films, Homer begins screening pirated movies in his backyard, but is busted by the FBI after Marge turns him in.
Directors: Mike B. Anderson, Matthew Nastuk | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 1,678
A storyline that would've fit right in with the golden era.
74.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
Brick Like Me
(2014)
TV-14 | 22 min | Animation, Comedy
The Lego version of Homer begins to suspect that his entire Lego world is not real when a toy triggers a flashback to an alternate reality.
Directors: Mike B. Anderson, Matthew Nastuk | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 1,896
The most visually creative episode of the series thus far.
75.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
Sky Police
(2015)
TV-14 | 22 min | Animation, Comedy
The congregation, led by Marge, is forced to resort to gambling in order to collect money to fix the church, which Chief Wiggum destroyed with a jet pack he received by mistake.
Directors: Mike B. Anderson, Rob Oliver | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 1,119
A little more overlooked compared to the rest of this list, but is generally well-received among those that have seen it.
76.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
Halloween of Horror
(2015)
TV-14 | 22 min | Animation, Comedy
The Simpsons are proud to be the most festively decorated house on the block. But when Lisa is traumatized at Krustyland Horror Night, she feels she cannot handle Halloween anymore.
Director: Mike B. Anderson | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 1,643
The most wholesome episode since season 9. Also, ''NC-17 Halloween'' is a banger.
77.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
Barthood
(2015)
TV-14 | 22 min | Animation, Comedy
A tale of Bart's journey from youth to adulthood, where he is constantly in search of approval from his father and in the shadow of his more-successful younger sister.
Directors: Mike B. Anderson, Rob Oliver | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 2,385
A fantastic and heartwarming tale of Bart's life that you sometime forget it's technically a Boyhood parody.
78.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
The Town
(2016)
TV-14 | 21 min | Animation, Comedy
Homer takes the family on a "hate-cation" to Boston after he catches Bart rooting for a rival football team.
Directors: Mike B. Anderson, Rob Oliver | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 1,169
The most character driven of the Vacation-themed episodes.
79.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
I, Carumbus
(2020)
TV-14 | 22 min | Animation, Comedy
At a museum exhibit of Ancient Rome, Marge and Homer imagine themselves in Rome where Homer is more ambitious.
Directors: Mike B. Anderson, Rob Oliver | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 1,060
This episode completely rebuilds the Simpsons universe in ways unlike similar episodes.
80.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
The Road to Cincinnati
(2020)
TV-14 | 22 min | Animation, Comedy
Skinner and Chalmers take an 800-mile car ride to an administrator's convention in Cincinnati.
Directors: Mike B. Anderson, Matthew Nastuk | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 958
The first episode that focuses solely on supporting characters while pushing the Simpsons themselves to the background, and it works surprisingly well.
81.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
The Last Barfighter
(2021)
TV-14 | 22 min | Animation, Comedy
A secret society of bartenders seeks revenge on Homer and his friends when Moe breaks their most sacred rule.
Directors: Mike B. Anderson, Timothy Bailey | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 841
It's a John Wick parody starring Moe, what's not to love?
82.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
A Serious Flanders
(2021)
TV-14 | 22 min | Animation, Comedy
Homer and Ned get sucked into the violent world of prestige TV when a ruthless debt collector comes to Springfield.
Directors: Mike B. Anderson, Debbie Bruce Mahan | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 1,529
Pushes the boundaries of what the show can do outside of the regular format, without being limited to a ToH segment.
83.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
A Serious Flanders: Part 2
(2021)
TV-14 | 22 min | Animation, Comedy
Things go from bad to worse for Homer and Ned.
Directors: Mike B. Anderson, Matthew Faughnan | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 1,295
see pt. 1
84.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
Pixelated and Afraid
(2022)
TV-14 | 22 min | Animation, Comedy
Homer and Marge must push themselves to their limits when they get lost in an icy wilderness.
Directors: Mike B. Anderson, Chris Clements | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 1,065
A beautiful episode proving how Homer and Marge are made for each other.
85.
The Simpsons (1989– )
Episode:
Treehouse of Horror XXXIII
(2022)
TV-PG | 22 min | Animation, Comedy
In the 33rd annual Halloween special, Marge's resentment takes a monstrous form, Lisa tries to save the planet through murder, and Homer realizes that he's not the man he thought he was.
Directors: Mike B. Anderson, Rob Oliver | Stars: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
Votes: 1,566
The first Treehouse special since season 7 where every segment is an outstanding, timeless knockout.
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