The Simpsons: 10 Absolute Worst Episodes Ever

5. Marge Be Not Proud

The overarching plot of this episode is just heart-achingly dull: son shoplifts; mother is disappointed; son learns lesson. There is no nuance or wit to the episode, which is possibly why some of the lines stand out so much better than in other episodes.

What's worse is that the characters don't seem to fit any of their established developments. Lisa as the conscientious figure is a non-character, with barely any criticism of her brother's actions, Marge is overplayed as a doting mother, and after the events of The Tell-Tale Head, why would Bart ever take the advice of Jimbo and Nelson?

Unsurprisingly, most fans would probably rather play Lee Carvallo's Putting Challenge than watch this pseudo-Christmas special.