10 Most Underrated Simpsons Characters

Originally beginning in 1987 as an animated short on The Tracey Ullman Show, The Simpsons has gone on to become one of the most successful shows in the history of television. After 26 seasons, the show has moved on from it's humble beginnings, with its voice stars earning millions of dollars every season for their work. While some would argue the quality has declined over the years, it still draws in viewers with top class animation and an endless stream of gags.

Though it started off focusing on an average, yellow American family, the cast rapidly expanded to massive proportions. After more than 500 episodes, it's no surprise why - no show produces that high a number without building up an enviable supporting cast. Homer and family may be pop culture icons, but some of the show's secondary characters are just as recognisable. And as the quality becomes more and more inconsistent, it's the characters that keep people coming back.

But what of the characters that aren't quite so iconic? Those that don't feature on Simpsons merchandise, or those that rarely seem to get an episode all of their own. Some of these characters feature irregularly in the show, others appear every week, but all are seriously underrated by fans or even the writers - sometimes to show's creators guage things wrong!

Up and Atom!

Cletus is a slack-jawed yokel, though terms like hill-billy and red-neck are also acceptable. Initially appearing in the Season 5 episode Bart Gets an Elephant, Cletus has steadily become a recognisable Simpsons character, popping up any time writers get the urge to poke fun at the more delicate aspects of the American South.

He has a range of grotesque hobbies, generally involving the creative mistreatment of squirrels and small game. One of the more controversial aspects of Cletus' character is his attachment to his mother. Then there's his choice of marriage partner Charlene - possibly his own sister. They're clearly happy together however, since they have literally dozens of children. Naming them was a bit of a stretch for Cletus, and some highlights include 'Gummy-Sue', 'Embry Joe' and 'Melvis'.

Say what you like about Cletus, he's clearly a family man.

With Cletus, maybe it's his late introduction to the show which prevents being a really big secondary character. By the time Season 5 arrived, Apu, Moe, Mr Burns and others had already filled the roster with major central characters. Also, it's a little difficult to fit a redneck into The Simpsons' lives on a regular basis.