10 Best Simpsons Characters Who Debuted After The Golden Age

Mary Spuckler, daughter of Cletus and Brandine, only appears in three episodes but features heavily in all of them. Somewhat unique for Simpsons characters, she seems to age as the show goes on, but manages to have an impact on the narrative each time.

Zooey Deschanel voiced this love interest of Bart’s, managing to involve him in the story without resorting to nonsense. Looking at you, Darcy. With her experience from indie darlings She & Him, Deschanel makes Spuckler’s songs a joy to listen to. Having starred in the likes of New Girl and Elf too, her performance fits Mary brilliantly, unlike many other wooden celebrity cameos.

She’s easily the most intelligent Spuckler we’ve seen, meaning while there’s still a few redneck bumpkin gags in there, Mary can carry wit on her own and keeps pace with Bart. Throwing the focus onto the tiny tearaway and off Homer, Mary episodes are slightly reminiscent of the early days in Springfield.

Despite Deschanel’s talent, in a way it’s a shame she’s voiced by such a big star; a lesser name might have been able to return to keep her in the frame as an on again, off again lover for Bart.

Who do you think is the best Simpsons character to debut after the Golden Age? Let us know down in the comments.