The Simpsons were once the greatest show on television. Seasons 1-9 1/2 are phenomenal and a perfect mixture of comedic genius still rooted in some form of warped wholesomeness. All of the characters were well written, but Homer encapsulated such a lovable character that could mess up, but still meant well. Although Season 8's episode "Homer's Enemy" was a great episode, it was also a turning point for the show, where Homer's character transformed from a lovable goofball (that although flawed most of us could relate to) into almost a caricature of himself. After "Homer's Enemy", Homer became less goofy but good hearted and instead became more obnoxious. There is no investment when characters have nothing to lose, and each of the subsequent episodes became less focused on the story and more focused on "Family Guy" style instant gags that had nothing to do with the plot. The rest of season 8 and most of season 9 (some of season 10) were still really good, but the series lost the charm from the earlier seasons.
Season 12 though...complete garbage. Being a fan of the series since the Tracy Ullman Show, I refused to give up on the Simpsons as I watched terrible episode after terrible episode that made up season 12. After this episode though, I called it quits. I still watch Simpsons quite a bit, but only the first 10 seasons. I've tried watching the newer ones just to see if there was anything good that I was missing, but they are just so awful. I can watch an entire episode and not laugh once. Such a shame that the team destroyed one of the greatest shows in television history in exchange for money. They really did desecrate a work of art.
