10 Best "B" Plots In The Simpsons

10. Happy Dude – Lisa’s Date With Density

The main plot of Season 8's Lisa's Date With Density sees Lisa develop a crush on local bully and vest-enthusiast, Nelson Muntz.

However, whilst this is going on, Homer takes us on one of his trademark "Get Rich Quick" schemes, when he runs a telemarketing scam using an Auto-Dial machine.

The scam promises "eternal happiness" in exchange for one dollar, courtesy of "Happy Dude". Victims of the swindle include Grandpa and Jasper, who don't feel any happier even after sending the dollar; Ned Flanders, who ends up sleeping on the lawn because he refuses to unplug his phone; and Mr. Burns, who decides he'd probably be happier if he just kept the money.

This story is fantastic because it's a total contrast to the rest of the episode. It reminds us that Springfield is a world outside of Lisa and the schoolyard and various characters' interactions with Happy Dude perfectly show off the depth and development of the show's cast.

It's full off great gags too, like Homer chasing the machine after its creator, Prof. Frink, activates its homing device.

It also appears over the end credits when Homer uses it to dial everyone in town to apologise for scamming them. Of course, he also takes this opportunity to ask them to send him money, this time under the name "Sorry Dude".