The Simpsons Takes A Step Forward With Intro Of Smithers’ New Boyfriend

The Simpsons have been the cornerstone of the culture for 33 seasons but as times change so have the Simpsons’ storylines.

One storyline that has developed over the past several seasons is Waylon Smithers, Mr. Burns’ long-abused personal assistant. Mr. Smithers’ attraction to Mr. Burns was a secret during the early days of The Simpsons, it was only revealed during season four in “Marge Gets A Job” when Mr. Burns flies into Smithers’ bedroom in a romantic dream.

Now three seasons later, Smithers’ sexuality will become an open part of the narrative in “Portrait Of A Lackey On Fire,” the latest Simpson episode where Smithers’ sexuality is explored for 15 minutes.

“Portrait Of A Lackey On Fire” doesn’t single out Smithers yet it treats him with the same ridicule and tenderness it bestows upon the straight characters.

Do you think the Simpsons will be able to balance its political undertones with LGBTQ storylines?