10 Simpsons Episodes From Seasons 10-19 That Are Actually Hilarious

Summary

Apocalypse Cow introduces Mary Spuckler & showcases Bart caring for a cow.
Wizard of Evergreen Terrace features Homer inventing with memeworthy moments.
The Heartbroke Kid features Albert Brooks & hilarious weight-loss camp antics.

The Simpsons, a cherished icon of contemporary pop culture, boasts the title of the longest-running scripted American primetime series. Over its decades-long run, it has garnered numerous accolades and collaborations with esteemed figures in various fields, and is slated to continue at least up to season 40.

Critics who adhere strictly to tradition often argue that the show lost its appeal and excitement after season 9, frequently pointing to the episode “The Principal and the Pauper” as the turning point where it jumped the shark. However, this era now makes up only a quarter of the entire series. Despite this perceived decline, there have been numerous instances since then that demonstrate why the show continues to be broadcast. Among these are several well-known favorites that viewers might not realize were produced later than they assume.

10. Apocalypse Cow

Animal Welfare

Season 19, Episode 17

As a devoted cinephile, I’ll be focusing on rankings that reflect the enduring impact of episodes from a fan’s point of view. We’re talking about moments that have left an indelible mark, such as the iconic Homer Bushes scene in “Homer Loves Flanders,” which has become a global meme sensation. The quality of humor and the memorable scenes will be given more weight than a critical analysis from a broader perspective.

The episode titled “Apocalypse Cow” is relatively unknown among the series, but it’s a heartwarming tale about Bart caring for a cow he nurtured. This episode also introduced Zooey Deschanel’s character, Mary Spuckler, who later became a crucial recurring figure in Bart-centric episodes. Moreover, it validated Skinner’s belief that the kids were mistaken for not participating in the 4-H club.

9. The Wizard of Evergreen Terrace

Inventive Exploits

Season 10, Episode 2

In the tale of Evergreen Terrace’s Sorcerer, we follow Homer as he develops a passion to invent, inspired by Thomas Edison. After multiple unsuccessful tries, he finds himself seeking a posthumous revenge on Edison for instilling dreams within him that he lacks the resources to achieve.

In a straightforward manner, Homer’s memorable make-up prop gun continues to be notorious over time, and one of his other creations remains one of the show’s most enduring mysteries, with viewers still puzzled as to why Homer calls himself ‘seated in the designated chair.’

8. The President Wore Pearls

Vote Lisa

Season 15, Episode 3

Occasionally, to keep consistency challenging yet engaging over a prolonged period, The Simpsons has occasionally changed its approach by directly mimicking well-known properties. Some of these episodes, like “Eternal Moonshine of the Simpson Mind” and “24 Minutes,” have been highly praised by critics as standouts from the later seasons.

Regarding this list, it’s “The President Wore Pearls” that stands out as a captivating musical rendition, reminiscent of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s “Evita”. In this production, Skinner skillfully maneuvers Lisa, the newly elected student body president, into implementing an unwanted plan. It is filled with memorable tunes and classic humor.

7. Blame it on Lisa

Simpsons Carnival

Season 13, Episode 15

The phrase “Blame it on Lisa” is particularly significant due to its real-world consequences following its release. The Brazilian government even considered taking legal action against the producers, as they believed the portrayal of their country was damaging and could potentially harm tourism.

In relation to the many crimes shown in the episode, the most notable being Homer’s kidnapping, it has become a method to spice up the Simpsons’ usual pattern by setting episodes in different countries. The episode, where Lisa leads the family on a trip to Brazil to find her lost pen pal, is one of the earliest examples of this storyline format.

6. We’re on the Road to D’ohwhere

Cross Country Bonding

Season 17, Episode 11

While The Simpsons sometimes lacks the emotional depth or sensitivity found in shows like Bob’s Burgers and Bojack Horseman, it still manages to tell a touching story. At its core lies the dynamic between Homer and Bart, depicting a father learning from his own rocky upbringing and a son who pushes him into settling down earlier than he planned.

The series explores this topic extensively through multiple episodes, and “On the Road to D’ohwhere” stands out as one of the most emotionally raw. In this episode, Bart gets expelled, prompting the family to send him to a behavior modification facility that necessitates Homer driving him across the country. During their journey, the two try to work through their relationship issues and gain fresh insights into each other’s viewpoints.

5. Homer to the Max

And That’s The End Of That Chapter

Season 10, Episode 13

From one end to another, “Homer to the Max” isn’t particularly groundbreaking or emotional; it’s the classic, witty Simpsons at its most quotable. When a show features a suave detective named Homer Simpson, Homer tries to claim the limelight for the role. However, this comparison becomes notably less flattering once creative alterations transform the character into a clumsy sidekick instead.

In order to avoid mockery, Homer transforms his identity into Max Power and starts associating with trend-setting figures in Springfield. This installment is filled with hilarious gags and yet another well-loved internet joke format: ‘Brace yourselves, everyone, he’s about to do something incredibly foolish’.

4. Skinner’s Sense of Snow

Cabin Fever

Season 12, Episode 8

At the higher echelons of this list, you’ll find some overlooked comedic masterpieces from this show’s era, primarily known for their humor. In “Skinner’s Sense of Snow”, the kids find themselves potentially snowed in at school over Christmas, as Skinner stubbornly refused to shut down despite a severe weather alert.

Among the episode’s most striking moments are the lengthy spoof of Skinner’s favorite Christmas film, “The Christmas That Almost Didn’t Happen But Did,” and Homer joining forces with Ned Flanders for a disastrous rescue mission, showcasing the unlikely partnership and humor one might anticipate.

3. Trilogy of Error

Linguo Is Dead

Season 12, Episode 18

The standout among episodes beyond season 10, often praised by critics, is the trilogy titled “Trilogy of Errors.” Previously hinted at, the show has experienced a drop in both viewer and critical interest, more due to audience fatigue than a significant decrease in quality. This dip in attention made critical reviews less of a priority. Nevertheless, “Trilogy of Errors” continues to merit its praise.

In the style reminiscent of “Treehouse of Horrors,” this episode presents a unique twist, narrating the same tale from three distinct angles, revealing fresh insights with each iteration. Similar to “22 Short Films About Springfield,” this could be considered the show’s zenith in terms of expanding and enriching the vibrant universe of Springfield, making it feel authentic and inhabited. Leveraging its expansive roster of characters has been instrumental in setting The Simpsons apart from numerous other popular shows that followed suit.

2. Dial ‘N’ for Nerder

Martin Prince is Dead

Season 19, Episode 14

Regarding humor, it can vary greatly from person to person. However, if you’ve stuck with me this far, there’s a high probability that you might find a chuckle or two in the less popular episode titled “Dial ‘N’ for Nerder“. This show employs the quick-witted style of Zucker-Abrahams by cramming numerous jokes into a concise narrative. In this particular story, Bart and Lisa believe they have accidentally killed Martin in a misguided prank.

At school, a memorial service took place where Skinner referred to Martin by numerous nicknames such as “The Farting Prince” and “Martin the Brownnosed Reindeer.” This humor was not sophisticated, but quick and abundant in this peculiar episode.

1. The Heartbroke Kid

Childhood Obesity

Season 16, Episode 17

As a movie aficionado, I can’t help but sing praises for Albert Brooks’ outstanding guest appearance in “The Heartbroke Kid.” Known for his iconic role as Hank Scorpio, Brooks delivers yet another unforgettable performance. In this film, he steps into the shoes of Tab Spangler, the head counselor at a weight-loss camp where Bart finds himself after succumbing to an addiction to a new sugary treat. Without a doubt, “The Heartbroke Kid” soars to the top of my must-watch list thanks to Brooks’ captivating portrayal.

As a cinema enthusiast, let me tell you, almost everything Spangler utters is side-splittingly funny. This overly sensitive counselor stumbles over his words and encounters contradictory signage at every turn. Just like the last entry, it’s the rapid-fire delivery of these quick wit remarks that transforms the episode into a roaring comedy spectacle.

2025-05-10 06:40