Our favorite yellow family has lasted for over 36 seasons, with more than 790 episodes filled with highs and lows. Some episodes are widely recognized as classics, while others could be considered hidden gems. In this list, you’ll find the best-rated episodes of “The Simpsons”.
“Last Exit to Springfield” – (E17 S4)
Homer becomes union leader when Mr. Burns cuts the dental plan, fighting to get Lisa braces. It is a sharp labor satire packed with quotable gags. Many critics treat it as a series peak.
“Marge vs. the Monorail” – (E12 S4)
A fast-talking swindler convinces Springfield to invest in a faulty monorail, with Homer unexpectedly taking the driver’s seat. As chaos erupts, Marge scrambles to stop the out-of-control train. The episode became a cult favorite, complete with a memorable Leonard Nimoy appearance.
“Homer at the Bat” – (E17 S3)
Mr. Burns loads up the power plant’s softball roster with Major League legends to settle a wager. Homer wields his “Wonder Bat” as oddball twists and accidents shape the outcome. The result is a beloved sports spoof packed with star cameos.
“Cape Feare” – (E2 S5)
Sideshow Bob is released from prison and sets his sights on Bart, sending the family into witness protection. The story spoofs “Cape Fear” and features some of the series’ most iconic gags. Kelsey Grammer’s performance makes it unforgettable.
“Who Shot Mr. Burns? (Part One)” – (E25 S6)
After Mr. Burns enrages the town and is mysteriously shot, Springfield is left with a summer-long cliffhanger. The setup sprinkles real clues and red herrings everywhere. It became a 1995 pop-culture event.
“Lisa’s Substitute” – (E19 S2)
Lisa discovers inspiration in substitute teacher Mr. Bergstrom, only to face a heartfelt farewell when he leaves. At the same time, Bart launches a campaign for class president. It remains one of the series’ most touching early stories.
“Mr. Plow” – (E9 S4)
Homer launches a snow-plowing company, only to butt heads with Barney’s competing venture, The Plow King. Catchy jingles, celebrity cameos, and their over-the-top rivalry cemented the episode as a fan favorite. Dan Castellaneta even earned an Emmy during this season.
“Rosebud” – (E4 S5)
Mr. Burns yearns for his childhood teddy bear, Bobo, as flashbacks trace the toy’s strange path through history. When Maggie ends up with it, Burns must face his own memories. The episode is a heartfelt “Citizen Kane” parody, complete with a hilarious Ramones cameo.
“You Only Move Twice” – (E2 S8)
The Simpsons move for Homer’s new dream job with the charming Hank Scorpio, who also happens to be a criminal mastermind. While Homer excels in his role, the rest of the family struggles to adjust. It stands out as a flawless parody of suburban life mixed with spy-thriller chaos.
“A Fish Called Selma” – (E19 S7)
Troy McClure weds Selma to boost his fading career and silence gossip, but soon confronts the reality of such a marriage. It’s the ultimate Troy showcase and a biting send-up of Hollywood culture.
“22 Short Films About Springfield” – (E21 S7)
A patchwork of short stories tracks Springfield’s side characters over a single hectic day. The format lets deep-cut favorites shine, gave rise to the legendary steamed-hams meme.
“And Maggie Makes Three” – (E13 S6)
Homer recounts quitting the plant for his bowling-alley dream job, then returning when Maggie is on the way. The ending explains why there are no baby photos of her. The final wall gag still hits hard.
“Homer’s Phobia” – (E15 S8)
Homer bonds with a collectibles shop owner, but his attitude shifts when he discovers John is gay and fears for Bart’s influence. The story blends sharp humor with a heartfelt look at prejudice. Guest star John Waters makes the episode shine.
“Lemon of Troy” – (E24 S6)
When kids from Shelbyville swipe Springfield’s treasured lemon tree, Bart rallies a squad to reclaim it. The adventure plays like a playful tribute to youthful rivalries and small-town pride.
“Bart Sells His Soul” – (E4 S7)
Bart trades away his “soul” to Milhouse for five bucks, only to grow uneasy as strange things start to happen. His nighttime search brings both eerie tension and comic detours, including Moe’s doomed attempt at a family-friendly restaurant. The episode blends big questions with sharp laughs.
