Summary
The Simpsons' upcoming thirty-sixth season has the perfect chance to bring back a potentially great character who hasn’t appeared fully in an episode in over thirty years. Screen Rant attended this year’sThe Simpsonspanel atSan Diego Comic-Con, where the show’s creatives teased numerous developments for the upcoming season 36. This included some of theguest-stars set forThe Simpsonsseason 36, including the return of Danny DeVito.
A comedy legend who has been a presence in TV and film for decades, DeVito was one of the first big guest stars to ever appear onThe Simpsons. His character debuted all the way back in season 2, but hasn’t been seen on-screen since season 3. While it’s possible that DeVito is playing himself or even a new character,now is the perfect chance for DeVito to bring back his original characterfrom the show’s early seasons and highlight his potential with an appearance inThe Simpsonsseason 36.
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Danny DeVito’s Simpsons Return Could Bring Back Homer’s Long Lost Brother
Season 36 Could Fully Bring Back Herb For The First Time In Decades
Danny DeVito’s confirmed guest spot inThe Simpsonsseason 36could mean the show is bringing back Homer’s step-brother Herb Powell. Herb Powell was introduced in season 2’s “Oh Brother, Where Art Thou?.” Conceived during a one-night stand Abe Simpson once had, Herb grew up without any awareness of his brother’s existence. The half-brothers were united in season 2, but Homer’s attempts to help Herb bankrupted him. The following season, “Brother, Can You Spare Two Dimes?” brought Herb back and gave Homer the chance to make amends with him by investing in his next business venture.
Herb hasn’t been seen formally on-screen since season 3. A throwaway gag in season 24 suggested that Herb had lost his fortune again at some point off-screen, which featured a voice-only appearance from the character in a voice mail. However,The Simpsonshas reversed the fortunes of other supporting characters like Artie Ziff, meaning Herb could easily return to the show with his fortune in-tact. The description and guest stars forseason 36’s “Bart’s Birthday"could be the perfect explanation for Herb’s return, bringing presents (and celebrity guests) to a party for his nephew.
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Herb Could Have Been A Great Recurring Fixture InThe Simpsons
Herb Powell was a great concept forThe Simpsons, and one of the show’s earliest examples of a guest star fitting into the world of Springfield. He was also inherently designed to be an ideal recurring guest character, similar to Kelsey Grammer’s Sideshow Bob. Herb’s connection to Homer was full of storytelling potential, as their relationship could have continued to ebb and flow over the years. Herb could have been a useful family member to call upon in times of crisis, or could have complicated issues with his own intervention.
As a wealthy business owner with a sweet spot for the Simpsons and a good overall nature,Herb could have made for a natural counter to Mr. Burnsand a unique perspective onThe Simpsons' political themesover wealth gaps in America. Danny DeVito is also a comedy legend, who could have been an ideal recurring fixture in the show. Herb’s return toThe Simpsonsmay be tlong over-due, but it’s still exciting to see the show potentially bringing back one of the best early examples of how guest stars could easily fit into the world of Springfield.
The Simpsons
Cast
The Simpsons is an animated series set in the fictional town of Springfield, following the daily lives of the Simpson family—Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa, and Maggie. Premiering in 1989, the show is renowned for its satirical commentary on politics, media, and American culture, featuring numerous celebrity guest appearances.
