“ ‘The Simpsons’ money got bigger and bigger. When I left ‘The Simpsons’, no one thought this thing was going to still be around. It’s the cumulative effect. It’s like, ‘Oh my God, 25 years later, and it’s still coming in.’” Sam Simon.
Sam Simon, along with James L. Brooks and Matt Groening left a spectacular imprint onto what is deemed to be one of America’s most cherished family, despite the amount of family-on-family violence. Simon’s stint wasn’t long, but the three years he has contributed to the show as a writer and creative consultant made me love animation. Studio Ghibli made it apparent that animated films can carry adult themes, but what The Simpsons did had more gravitas for it’s start then what it is now. Sitcoms revolved around a family and their crazy antics, ever since The Honeymooners, and yet this show is more reminiscent of that show, then others. Throughout the first three seasons of the show Simon, along with fellow writers and directors, Al Jean, Jon Vitti, Groening and David Silverman, created a show that is slightly dark for the sake of satire, but in all they developed a family drama using characters that are meant for comedy. Homer’s dimwittedness over shadows most episodes, but his endearing and kindhearted nature is never forgotten.
My favorite episode written by Sam Simon (he co-wrote it) was ‘The Way We Was,’ an episode that tells the story of Homer and Marge. What I loved about the episode was how immediate the supporting characters were in relation to the show as whole. Barney was the only friend shown with Homer and Marge had her sisters present. Easily the episode held a long impression on me when I re-watched it, ironically after my school’s prom. I had a horrible time, thinking shit sucked, no one to dance with, I was alone with no alcohol, and I was bit heavier then what I was, also I was a pretty lousy student, so in the end I’d say I reflected myself in Homer. The episode perfectly blended societal norms of the 90s with a nice reflection of the 70s. The episode reached its sentimental start when the TV antenna busted on itself, and thus causing Lisa to question about a story from her parents past. The first flash back made me laugh with glee, as well as some other tidbits here and there. To be honest, this episode felt more like a drama then a comedy most of the time.
Simon basically fathered the show’s sensibility and I love him for that.
Simon helped develop other characters around Springfield, in some state. Some of these characters included Chief Wiggum, Eddie and Lou, Bleeding Gums Murphy as well as implementing the notion that Smithers should be gay. All of these are characters also left a major note in future episodes, some having a focus on them.
As head writer, you could see that he entrusted his staff with greatness. I only say greatness because of how great the first few seasons were. Here’s to a great man, who led a well-deserved life.
My life is in shambles now, but with episodes being available in 4:3 I will always have a piece of him.
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