The Simpsons: America’s longest-running sitcom. This atypical family comedy paved the way for many of the other animated comedies we think of when we think of the genre: Family Guy, King of the Hill, Futurama, and others.
Your favorite animated show? Probably inspired by The Simpsons, even if just a little.
How can you not feel strangely at home with the crazy Simpsons in the bizarro world of Springfield. Matt Groening took inspiration from his own childhood in Portland for what would become the most popular cartoon in the world, and the relatable pieces of suburban life that hold up the show really resonated with viewers.
The Simpsons began its life as a series of animated shorts on The Tracey Ullman Show in 1987 to fill time around commercial breaks. It caught on and was adapted to become what we know as The Simpsons in 1989. It's been on ever since, for better or for worse.
While the Simpsons--Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa, and Maggie-- have been featured in countless comics, spin-offs, and t-shirts, no character has appeared in more merchandising and spin-off material than Bart Simpson. He was the breakout character of the show- the mischievous and rebellious kid with a smart mouth and plenty of funny catchphrases. You couldn’t throw a rock without hitting a Bart shirt:
The show is full of funny one-liners and catchphrases. Simpsons quotes can be utilized in any situation, no matter what:
But one of the best things about the show is that there’s a personality for everyone to relate to. Are you a Lisa--smart and keen, but often riding a different wavelength than your peers? Or are you a Homer-- bumbling but well-meaning?
Are you a Ralph, and when you grow up, you want to be a principal… or a caterpillar?
...Let’s not pretend we aren’t all Ralph at least every once in a while.
