The Simpsons: 8 Recent Big Moments You Might Have Missed
3. Smithers' First Real Love Interest
He may not be on the same level as other supporting characters like Moe, Principal Skinner, or even his evil boss Mr. Burns, but over the last 30 years Waylon Smithers has become a popular mainstay in Springfield. This is even in spite of his boot licking and unquestioned loyalty to the aforementioned nuclear power tyrant.
From early on in the series, it has been known that Smithers was a gay man, yet this sexuality was typically only used as a joke. Whether it was about his holiday destinations, his relationship with John, or seeing him react in a strip club, it was never truly taken seriously.
This has changed in season 33, thanks to 'Portrait Of A Lackey On Fire', in which Smithers was finally given the chance to embrace who he really is, by celebrating his sexuality and finding a boyfriend instead of hiding and being the butt of a cheap joke like before.
While the relationship didn't last, The Simpsons finally gave Smithers the proper spotlight and platform he deserved. It almost doesn't matter how well the episode was received in terms of its actual story, the important thing was the long overdue LGBTQ+ representation and appreciation.