The Simpsons: 10 Most Underrated Characters

The Simpsons has been on-air since 1987 and shows no signs of slowing down. With over 30 seasons and nearly 700 episodes to its name, the animated sitcom is easily one of pop culture's most important shows, tackling social issues, family drama and everything in-between with striking honesty and an effective narrative.

Though many critics and fans would argue the show is far from what it used to be, there's no denying the timeless humour, one-liners and characters it has created are all absolutely wonderful, full of witty and mature humour and snarky social commentary.

The Simpsons is home to dozens upon dozens of great characters. Outside of fan favourites such as Homer and Bart Simpson, Mr Burns, Moe, Barney and Principal Skinner, there are many recurring characters who have never been quite as popular as they really should be, despite being just as amazing and reliable as the old favourites.

From melodramatic clowns to bitter old men, unlucky running gags to unflinching gangsters, here are 10 underrated characters from The Simpsons who deserve a lot more love from audiences.

Somewhat overshadowed by both Krusty the Clown and his murderous predecessor Sideshow Bob, Sideshow Mel is in his own right a brilliant recurring presence on the show.

With his theatrical accent and trademark bone, Mel is one of many characters whose humour comes not just from some solid one-liners, but from how horribly he is mistreated by Krusty both in front of the cameras and behind the scenes.

Mel is the ultimate punching bag, put in harm's way countless times just so Krusty can pull out all the stops to hit his audience with a violent rush of slapstick humour.

On top of the tragicomedy of his role, Mel is often very vocal at town hall meetings, often indulging his Shakespearean voice in some hilarious melodrama.

He may not be as memorable as Sideshow Bob, but thanks to his consistency and the striking voice work of Dan Castellaneta, he's impossible not to love.