The Simpsons: 15 BEST Golden Age Episodes

The only episode from The Simpsons' Golden Age that was reportedly not well-received by the executives at Fox before it was even created, Homer's Phobia tackles some extremely serious subject matter for such an unprecedented time and for a crowd that was probably unprepared to deal with what was perceived to be a sin against God.

The fundamental focus of Homer's Phobia - which is an amazing play on words - is the aggressive, uncouth contempt that most people had for homosexuals in the 1990s and preceding decades. The reason this episode stands out isn't just on its progressive satire of the fear of gays, but more so, how it points out just how derisory the derogatory reaction to people of this community is. As, only once John (homosexual guest character played by homosexual director John Waters), informs Homer that he is what he is, only then does Homer have an issue with their friendship, but more so, the negative influence he feels John may have on his son.

This all culminates in a scenario in which John has to save Homer's life from a pack of agitated reindeer, which only then can John regain Homer's respect. It's a clever social commentary on homophobia in general, and the risk they had taken with making their main character an unlikable bigot really goes to show just how creatively The Simpsons' writers could perpetuate such a simple, yet broad message.