The 10 Worst Simpsons Storylines

The 10 Most Problematic Storylines in The Simpsons

 

The iconic television series The Simpsons has carved out a legendary spot in pop culture, particularly in its prime from seasons three through eight. Episodes like Lemon of Troy and Marge vs. the Monorail are celebrated as classic sitcom gems, packed with wit and humor within a mere 22 minutes. However, as the show has evolved, many would argue that the quality has markedly declined, with the number of less stellar episodes increasing over time. That said, not every post-Golden Era episode falls flat; there have certainly been a few standout moments amid the less favorable offerings.

 

The series has seen nearly 800 episodes to date, and with such a lengthy run, it has inevitably produced storylines that leave viewers scratching their heads. These particular plots raise questions about the creative choices made by the show’s writers, particularly in relation to themes that either stray into poor taste or clash with established character traits. As Comic Book Guy would put it: these are the worst Simpsons storylines ever.

 

The Boys of Bummer (Season 18, Episode 18)

 

Dark humor is often effective, but the area’s limits quickly become apparent in the episode “The Boys of Bummer.” This installment opens with Bart blowing a crucial pop fly during a championship game, prompting the entire community of Springfield to turn on him—resulting in relentless bullying. As Bart struggles with the pressure, he even climbs a water tower, where Chief Wiggum encourages drastic actions. The weight of adults ruthlessly targeting a child could hint at a commentary on sports fanaticism, but fails to hit the mark, ultimately coming off as uncomfortable. The plot wraps up with an insincere apology from the townsfolk, leaving a disappointing message about bullying.

 

Days of Future Future (Season 25, Episode 18)

 

Following the surprisingly heartfelt Holidays of Future Passed in season 23, the sequel, Days of Future Future, falls flat. Instead of exploring meaningful character developments, we are met with slapstick absurdity as Homer inexplicably dies multiple times and is replaced by clones. Meanwhile, Lisa’s interest in zombie versions of Milhouse overshadows any genuine character growth. The episode’s chaotic denouement, revealing that everything was merely Bart’s fantasy, leads to lingering questions about narrative intent and coherence.

 

Homer vs. Dignity (Season 12, Episode 5)

 

One of the turning points for The Simpsons may have been in the aforementioned episode, where Homer becomes Mr. Burns’ “prank monkey.” The plot becomes increasingly uncomfortable as Homer is subjected to degrading stunts to financially support his family. A particularly contentious moment involves a sequence where he dresses as a female panda and faces humiliating consequences. While dark humor can work in the right context, this episode feels forced, showcasing a confusing desire to rival other edgy animated comedies rather than staying true to The Simpsons’ original charm.

 

The Strong Arms of the Ma (Season 14, Episode 9)

 

When considering emotionally charged comedy, certain themes should remain respectful. In The Strong Arms of the Ma, Marge’s quest for physical strength after enduring trauma leads to an uncomfortable portrayal of her dynamic with Homer. The narrative veers into problematic territory when Marge’s newfound aggression leads to an awkward sexual encounter with Homer while he’s unwilling. This portrayal of male vulnerability trivializes serious issues and raises eyebrows about the message it intends to convey.

 

The Sweetest Apu (Season 13, Episode 19)

 

Infidelity can often serve as a gripping narrative device, but The Sweetest Apu’s execution misses the mark. After Apu’s affair comes to light, the repercussions on his marriage and family paint a dismal picture. Apu’s character, once portrayed with depth and care, suffers a tarnished legacy as the show opts to showcase a rather bleak outcome without adequately addressing the emotional ramifications of such actions.

 

Every Man’s Dream (Season 27, Episode 1)

 

In a bizarre twist, Every Man’s Dream plays with the potential dissolution of Homer and Marge’s relationship but quickly reveals it to be a series of dreams. This play on narrative expectation ultimately feels like a tease, failing to deliver meaningful character development or engage with the show’s longstanding dynamics. Instead, it comes across as an opportunistic bid for relevance—a tactic audiences found unfulfilling after years of possible infidelity hints.

 

Co-Dependents Day (Season 15, Episode 15)

 

Marge and Homer’s relationship dynamics often straddle a complex line, and Co-Dependents Day exemplifies moments of uncharacteristic decision-making. Following a trip to wine country, Marge begins drinking with Homer, leading to a questionable decision-making pattern that culminates in Homer’s reckless behavior putting Marge in a precarious position—both legally and emotionally. The episode then hastily wraps itself up with a weak resolution that feels disingenuous to the characters and their history.

 

What to Expect When Bart’s Expecting (Season 25, Episode 19)

 

In an episode that raises more eyebrows than laughs, Bart’s misguided use of voodoo to sabotage an art teacher spirals into ludicrous territory, with the teacher soon showing up pregnant. The ensuing plotlines where Bart becomes entangled with a mob smuggler for absurd purposes feel disconnected and erratic. Instead of channeling classic Simpsons antics, this installment tiptoes into uncomfortable territory, proving that not every bizarre storyline hits the mark.

 

Jazzy and the Pussycats (Season 18, Episode 2)

 

Though creativity often weaves through sibling dynamics, Jazzy and the Pussycats falters in how it frames Bart’s success in music against Lisa’s uncharacteristic jealousy. The episode wraps with a moral that belittles Bart’s accomplishments and caters to Lisa’s insecurities, presenting a jarring resolution that detracts from the long-held sibling bond between them—a far cry from celebrating mutual interests.

 

Love is a Many Strangled Thing (Season 22, Episode 17)

 

A long-running gag of Homer strangling Bart, while often brushed aside, receives a pointed examination in Love is a Many Strangled Thing. As the episode progresses, a therapy narrative attempts to reconcile Homer’s mistaken beliefs about discipline with Bart’s resulting sociopathic behavior. While it aims to hold a mirror to the underlying themes of abuse, ultimately it operates on problematic tropes that appear to justify or overlook the severity of parental discipline gone wrong.

 

As The Simpsons continues its lengthy tenure, the renewal of familiar themes presents both opportunities and challenges. While the iconic status of the show is secured, moments like these remind us that not every storyline captures the spark and depth that fans have come to expect.