Springfield 25: The Top Simpsons Supporting Characters

Posted on July 25, 2007 @ 9:03 am

The Springfield 25

 
One of the many things that makes The Simpsons great is the show’s mammoth cast of supporting characters. With The Simpsons Movie slated for release this Friday, Apropos of Something proudly presents the Springfield 25, counting down the top supporting characters in Simpsons history. Feel free to share your own choices (as well as any favorite episodes, quotes, or whatever) in the comments section. Enjoy!

25. Snake

Memorable Quote: “Yoink!”

Random Trivia: Robert “Snake” Jailbird was a professor of archaeology before turning to a life of crime.

Snake

24. Rich Texan

Memorable Quote: “Son, I represent a group of oil tycoons who make foolish purchases. We already bought us a stained glass bathrobe, and the world’s fattest racehorse! And now, we need your ice man.”

Random Trivia: The Rich Texan has an heiress daughter named Paris Texan.

Rich Texan

23. Mayor Quimby

Memorable Quote: “All right, settle down, people. We are all upset by Mr. Burns’ plan to block out our sun. It is time for decisive action! I have here a polite but firm letter to Mr. Burns’ underlings who, with some cajoling, will pass it along to him or at least give him the gist of it.”

Random Trivia: The character of “Diamond” Joe Quimby is based in part on “Diamond” Jim Purcell, a corrupt police chief during the 1950s in Matt Groening’s hometown of Portland.

Mayor Quimby

22. Fat Tony

Memorable Quote: “I am not so much disappointed, as I am blinded with rage.”

Random Trivia: Fat Tony is a competent violinist, as seen in the episode “Insane Clown Poppy.”

Fat Tony

21. Waylon Smithers

Memorable Quote: “Uh, no, they’re saying ‘Boo-urns! Boo-urns!’”

Random Trivia: In Smithers’ first appearance (”Homer’s Odyssey”), he was accidentally made African-American by the animation studio. With tongues planted firmly in cheek, the producers insist that Smithers had just returned from a Caribbean vacation prior to the episode and should be considered “suntanned.”

Smithers

20. The Sea Captain

Memorable Quote: “Yarr, it begins. The dolphins are upon us and only this old sea dog knows how to stop — Yarr!” (two dolphins jump out of the water and rip him apart)

Random Trivia: The Sea Captain’s actual name is “Captain” Horatio McAllister. On separate occasions, he has admitted to not being an actual captain, as well as claiming to “hate the sea and everything in it.”

Sea Captain

19. Chief Wiggum

Memorable Quote: “This is Papa Bear. Put out an APB for a male suspect, driving a…car of some sort, heading in the direction of, uh, you know, that place that sells chili. Suspect is hatless. Repeat, hatless.”

Random Trivia: Clancy Wiggum became Springfield’s Chief of Police when the former Chief got fed up with the job and decided to give his badge to the next person he met (i.e. Wiggum).

Chief Wiggum

18. Grampa Simpson

Memorable Quote: “Now, my story begins in nineteen-dickety-two. We had to say ‘dickety’ ’cause the Kaiser had stolen our word ‘twenty.’ I chased that rascal to get it back, but gave up after dickety-six miles…”

Random Trivia: In addition to being a member of the secretive Stonecutters, Grampa Simpson is also an Elk, a Mason, a Communist, and President of the Gay and Lesbian Alliance.

Grandpa

17. Disco Stu

Memorable Quote: “Disco Stu likes disco music.”

Random Trivia: Stu had a budding career as a sea captain (calling himself “Nautical Stu”) before Marge introduced him to disco music.

Disco Stu

16. Itchy & Scratchy

Memorable Quote: “They fight! And bite! They fight and bite and fight! Fight fight fight! Bite bite bite! The Itchy and Scratchy Show!

Random Trivia: In the Simpsons universe, Itchy and Scratchy first appeared together in a 1928 cartoon short titled “Steamboat Itchy.”

Itchy and Scratchy

15. Groundskeeper Willie

Memorable Quote: “There’s nary an animal alive that can outrun a greased Scotsman.”

Random Trivia: Willie’s archenemy is the Irish Groundskeeper Seamus.

Groundskeeper Willie

14. Lenny and Carl

Memorable Quote: “You know, I was hexed by a troll once and a leprechaun cured that right up.”
“Hey, you know what’s even better is Jesus. He’s like six leprechauns!”
“Yeah, but a lot harder to catch. Go with the leprechaun.”

Random Trivia: Both Lenny and Carl hold Masters of Physics degrees.

Lenny and Carl

13. Professor Frink

Memorable Quote: “Unshrink you? Well that would require some sort of a ‘re-bigulator,’ which is a concept so ridiculous it makes me want to laugh out loud and chortle…but, aaahh, but not at you, O holiest of Gods, with the wrathfulness and the vengeance and the bloodrain and the ‘Hey, hey, hey — it hurts me!’”

Random Trivia: Professor Frink is named after John Frink, a Simpsons writer and producer.

Frink

12. Nelson Muntz

Memorable Quote: “Shoplifting is a victimless crime. Like punching someone in the dark.”

Random Trivia: Nelson once attended Space Camp with classmate Martin Prince, and the two became close friends. Nelson had to abandon the friendship upon returning to school, however, in order to maintain his “bad boy” image.

Nelson

11. Cletus the Slack-Jawed Yokel

Memorable Quote: “Hey, you know what? I could call my ma while I’m up here. HEY, MA! Get off the dang roof!”

Random Trivia: A partial list of Cletus Del Roy Spuckler and Brandine’s children includes: Tiffany, Heather, Cody, Dylan, Dermot, Jordan, Taylor, Brittany, Wesley, Rumer, Scout, Cassidy, Zoe, Chloe, Max, Hunter, Kendall, Caitlin, Noah, Sasha, Morgan, Kyra, Ian, Lauren, Q-Bert, Phil, Condoleezza Marie, Rubella Scabies, Gummy Sue, Birthday, Crystal Meth, Dubya, Incest, International Harvester, Jitney, and Witney.

Cletus

10. Krusty the Clown

Memorable Quote: “Kids, we need to talk for a moment about Krusty Brand Chew Goo Gum-Like Substance. We all knew it contained spider eggs, but the hantavirus? That came out of left field. So, if you’re experiencing numbness and/or comas, send five dollars to: Antidote, P.O. Box…”

Random Trivia: Krusty once hosted the Krusty Komedy Klassic (KKK) at the Apollo Theater in Harlem, New York. Needless to say, the show wasn’t a success.

Krusty

9. Moe Szyslak

Memorable Quote: “Well, why don’t you invite him over to dinner? Turn him from an enemy into a friend. Then, when he’s not expecting it… Bam! The ol’ fork-in-the-eye!”

Random Trivia: Before becoming a bartender Moe played “Smelly” on The Little Rascals, as well as pursuing a professional boxing career — initially under the name “Kid Gorgeous,” followed by “Kid Presentable,” “Kid Gruesome,” and eventually “Kid Moe.”

Moe

8. Apu Nahasapeemapetilon

Memorable Quote: “Thank you, come again!”

Random Trivia: Apu and his wife Manjula are the proud parents of octuplets: Anoop, Uma, Nabendu, Poonam, Priya, Sandeep, Sashi and Gheet.

Apu

7. Milhouse

Memorable Quote: “We started out like Romeo and Juliet, but it ended up in tragedy.”

Random Trivia: Milhouse is one of only a small handful of Simpsons characters (including his parents) drawn with eyebrows.

Milhouse

6. Troy McClure/Lionel Hutz (tie)

Memorable Quotes: “Hi, I’m Troy McClure. You may remember me from such self-help tapes as Smoke Yourself Thin and Get Some Confidence, Stupid!”

“Homer, I don’t use the word ‘hero’ very often, but you are the greatest hero in American history.”

Random Trivia: Actor Billy West based the voice of Futurama’s Zapp Brannigan in large part on Phil Hartman’s performance as Troy McClure.

Lionel Hutz is also known by the aliases Miguel Sanchez and Dr. Nguyen Van Falk.

Lionel Hutz, Troy McClure

5. Ned Flanders

Memorable Quote: “I’ve done everything the Bible says — even the stuff that contradicts the other stuff!”

Random Trivia: Ned’s habit of inserting nonsensical phrases like “diddly” and “doodly” into his sentences is the result of psychological conditioning to suppress his childhood rage.

Flanders

4. Sideshow Bob

Memorable Quote: “Attempted murder? Now honestly, what is that? Do they give a Nobel Prize for attempted chemistry?”

Random Trivia: Sideshow Bob has a tattoo reading “Die Bart Die,” which he once helpfully explained to the Springfield parole board is German for “The Bart, The.”

Sideshow Bob

3. Comic Book Guy

Memorable Quote: “Inspired by the most logical race in the galaxy, the Vulcans, breeding will be permitted once every seven years. For many of you, this will mean much less breeding; for me, much much more.”

Random Trivia: Comic Book Guy’s actual name as Jeff Albertson, a name purposefully chosen by the producers to upset fans hoping for something less generic.

Comic Book Guy

2. Ralph Wiggum

Memorable Quote: “Me fail English? That’s unpossible!”

Random Trivia: The Bloodhound Gang “Ralph Wiggum” in 2005, a song with lyrics comprised almost entirely of quotes from the character.

Ralph

1. Mr. Burns

Memorable Quote: “Listen, Spielbergo, Schindler and I are like peas in a pod. We’re both factory owners, we both made shells for the Nazis, but mine worked, dammit! Now go out there and win me that festival!”

Random Trivia: Mr. Burns’ Social Security Number is 000-00-0002 (he remains bitter at Franklin D. Roosevelt for snatching up 000-00-0001).

Mr. Burns

 
Honorable Mentions (Single-Appearance Characters): Frank “Grimey” Grimes, Poochie, Sherry Bobbins, Hank Scorpio, and Lyle Lanley.

Posted by Jess | Filed Under Pop Culture |

138 comments so far...

  1. Ryan S. July 25, 2007 9:42 am

    Lionel Hutz is a grave omission from this list, if only based solely on Phil Hartman’s voice work and this exchange:

    “Mr. Simpson, this is the most blatant case of fraudulent advertising since my suit against the film, “The Never-Ending Story”.
    Homer: So. Do you think I have a case?
    Hutz: Homer, I don’t use the word “hero” very often, but you are the greatest hero in American history. “

  2. Fuzzball July 25, 2007 11:10 am

    I must agree about Lionel Hutz BUT that does not change the fact that you are totally awesome. AWESOME. :D

  3. Aptiva Dave July 25, 2007 11:48 am

    Yes, more Hutz!

  4. Jess July 25, 2007 11:54 am

    Okay, I probably should have included Hutz. In my defense, however, Troy McClure ranks near the top and Hartman’s Lyle Lanley did make the honorable mentions. ;)

  5. Ryan S. July 25, 2007 12:06 pm

    Yes, you did get two of the three most notable Phil Hartman characters, so I’ll let you slide. ;-)

  6. gonz July 25, 2007 12:11 pm

    Hey, where’s Barney? BURRRRRP!!!!!!!!!

  7. MC July 25, 2007 12:16 pm

    Cletus/Brandine and Groundskeeper Willie are comic GOLD!

  8. Chris July 25, 2007 1:01 pm

    Pretty good. Some of these characters have suffered from overuse though. I’d probably replace Rich Texan with Gil.

  9. Jeff July 25, 2007 1:07 pm

    I started wondering why Homer didn’t make it to the list.

    Then I read the title again.

  10. Jess July 25, 2007 1:08 pm

    @Chris: Gil was actually in my original list at #25 until I realized I had forgotten Grampa. You’ve gotta love ol’ Gil.

  11. Andy July 25, 2007 2:08 pm

    Frank Grimes is a legend.

  12. Hed July 25, 2007 2:45 pm

    Where is Dr. Nick Riviera?
    “Hi everybody!”
    “Hi Dr. Nick!”

  13. joe July 25, 2007 2:45 pm

    Billy West didn’t base Zapf Brannigan’s character on Troy McClure, Zapf was originally voiced by Phil Hartman. West took over the character after Hartman died.

  14. Christopher July 25, 2007 2:51 pm

    Hans Moleman and Dr. Nick are two grave omissions.

  15. Ted July 25, 2007 3:00 pm

    Hutz is easily in the top 5.

    Hutz: Great, we’ve drawn Judge Snyder
    Marge: Is that bad?
    Hutz: Well, he’s kind of had it in for me ever since I accidentally ran over his dog.
    Marge: You did?
    Hutz: Actually, replace “accidentally” with “repeatedly,” and replace “dog” with “son.”

    Lionel Hutz: Well, I didn’t win. Here’s your pizza.
    Marge: But we did win.
    Lionel Hutz: That’s okay. The box is empty!

    Hutz: Mrs Simpson, your sexual harassment case is just what I need to rebuild my shattered career! Care to join me in a belt of Scotch?
    Marge: But it’s 9:30 in the morning!
    Hutz: Yeah but… I haven’t slept in days. [glug, glug] Last chance! [glug, glug] Ohh yeah!

    Hutz: Now Apu, Mrs. Simpsons claims she forgot she was carrying that bottle of… delicious bourbon. Brownest of the brown liquors. What’s that? You want me to drink you? I’m in the middle of a trial.

    I could go on and on…

  16. Ted July 25, 2007 3:07 pm

    And furthermore, Lionel Hutz easily trumps Rich Texan, Cletus, and possible Disco Stu and Fat Tony…

  17. ryan July 25, 2007 3:15 pm

    So many, it’s hard to complain about omission’s, although Barney, Dr. Nick, and Dr. Hibbert are some obvious ones. Just an excuse to make a second list next week. In that one you will be required by law to have Sideshow Bob as #1.

  18. Simpsons XV - DenkfabrikBlog.de July 25, 2007 3:18 pm

    [...] Springfield 25: The Top Simpsons Supporting Characters ‘The Simpsons’ On Drugs: 6 Trippiest Scenes 101 Greatest Simpsons Quotes The 10 Best Simpsons Endings Of All Time [...]

  19. b July 25, 2007 3:24 pm

    the ’sea captain’s name is Captain McCallister,
    by the way.

    argh! narry a warning light to be seen.
    ’tis clear sailin’ for our precious cargo!

    you mean the hot pants?

    aye!

  20. J-Dub July 25, 2007 3:33 pm

    In another episode, Chief Wiggum gets his position by giving Mayor Quimby backrubs with his pistol.

  21. gonz July 25, 2007 3:48 pm

    I would like to add to honorable mentions
    James Woods
    John Waters - I forget the character name
    Stephen Hawkins - c’mon, flying wheel chair iz teh shizzle, I heard he really voiced his character.

  22. Jess July 25, 2007 3:51 pm

    Okay, okay…since I’m a slave to peer pressure, I’ve reworked the countdown ever so slightly. I originally picked Troy McClure over Lionel Hutz, but why not include both? Therefore, in the revised list, Lionel Hutz now shares the #6 spot with Troy McClure.

    Sigh…I remember once upon a time when I still had credibility. ;)

  23. J July 25, 2007 3:51 pm

    Uhhh..No Barney or aliens? WTF

  24. Ryan S. July 25, 2007 4:00 pm

    Jess,

    I’m appeased. :-)

  25. Ted July 25, 2007 4:06 pm

    Jess- you did the right thing. Someday you shall be repaid.

    Lisa: But it says in your ad you work on contingency.
    Bart: Yeah, no money down.
    Hutz: Let me see that. [scribbles on it] There, that’s how it should read.
    Lisa: So you don’t work on contingency?
    Hutz: No, money down! I should probably get rid of that bar association logo, too [tears it off and eats it].

    And gonz, those are cameos, not supporting characters. Although there should be a separate list for that, too.

  26. steve c. July 25, 2007 4:09 pm

    where’s Dr. Nick Riviera!!!???!!!

  27. Ben July 25, 2007 4:26 pm

    Where is Duffman?

  28. Ted July 25, 2007 4:28 pm

    I’d also like to nominate the pimply-faced high school kid who’s voice cracks all the time. Reminds me of myself back in the day.

  29. Drewbie July 25, 2007 4:58 pm

    Gil is a must on this list. Also, I don’t know his name but Grandpa Simpsons freind from the old folks home must be on here. The one with the gray beard and a cane.

    I would also say the aliens from the Halloween episodes. Their voices were hilarious.

  30. Dave July 25, 2007 5:06 pm

    Gil is a must, so is Jasper!

    The old sarcastic salesman is always funny, but one of the funniest (although we barely see him) is the weird fat guy who always says “YYYYYYYYYEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEESSSSSSSSSS”!

  31. MC July 25, 2007 5:27 pm

    The old sarcastic salesman is named Raphael.

    “Hey Fatty, I’ve got a movie for you: A Fridge too Far.”

  32. TVBrain July 25, 2007 5:59 pm

    Otto Man?
    Mrs. Crabapple?
    Patty & Selma? (for Chub Chub alone.)

    Otherwise, nice work.

  33. Meh July 25, 2007 6:29 pm

    Seriously, Ralph at number 2? That’s like saying the Ford Taurus is an interesting car. Your lame friends who “like the Simpsons” but couldn’t name one character outside of the Simpsons family and Ralph, like Ralph.

    I’d also add that since the good years, Ralph has become a caricature of Ralph (which was a caricature to begin with). Boo-urns to you, list creator! Stop adding to the deification of Ralph (Stop! He’s already dead!).

  34. Nore July 25, 2007 6:39 pm

    Professor Frink: Pi is exactly three!

  35. estrella July 25, 2007 7:16 pm

    how about professor skinner?

  36. Superdude July 25, 2007 7:19 pm

    Mayor Quimby’s *name* may be based on Portland’s old police chief, but his *character* is obviously based on Ted Kennedy.

    And Professor Frink appeared in many episodes prior to 2000.

  37. Chris July 25, 2007 9:11 pm

    What about Bumble Bee man and Lionel Hutz!!

  38. Brian July 25, 2007 9:12 pm

    How is principal Skinner not on the list? The trivia question could be that his real name is Arman Tanzerian.

  39. Ben July 25, 2007 9:48 pm

    Must be something in the air. I just posted my 21 best Simpsons lines of all time.

  40. Mike July 26, 2007 12:20 am

    Rainier Wolfcastle easily deserves to be on the list…he’s given us McBain and Radioactive Man. His trivia could have been that he owns a place with Chuck Norris and his quote “Mein bratwurst has a first name, it’s F-R-I-T-Z. Mein bratwurst has a second name, it’s S-C-H-N-A-C-K-E-N-P-F-E-F-F-E-R-H-A-U-S-E-N.”

  41. dscan July 26, 2007 12:40 am

    Hans Moleman!

  42. G July 26, 2007 1:28 am

    I’m sorry but not only is this list gravely out of order (Hutz and McClure not #1?) and they shouldn’t be grouped together either. But you’re also wrong there was a film before steamboat itchy called That Happy Cat, heck there was an entire episode about it. And Frink didn’t say that comment it was a small version of him that lived in a tub under lisa’s bed. I mean I usually don’t comment on these things but if you’re gonna make a post like this try to at least be right.

  43. J .C. July 26, 2007 1:38 am

    hey where’s santas lil helper or bleeding gums murphy and its freakin sad the comments list got this far without anyone talking up for the OTTO MAN. DDDDDDDDDUUUUUUUUDDDDDDDEEEEEEEEEEE WHATS UP WITH THAT

  44. Jeff July 26, 2007 2:16 am

    You’ve been Gorillamask’D!

  45. David July 26, 2007 2:29 am

    What about ROY!!!

  46. pea July 26, 2007 2:42 am

    I used to get a serious amount of flack from people (and my sister of course) because I wouldn’t allow her to see it for the longest time. I love the show, don’t get me wrong, but I don’t necessarily think it’s appropriate for little kids. Anyway. As a result, she and I missed the first five or six seasons (I lifted the ban once she reached her teens) but now it’s all good because every once in a while we catch an episdoe we’ve never seen and it’s like a little suprise. What can I say? We’re simple folks. Really looking forward to the movie. I’m going in expecting to like it but I’m a little worried it won’t live up to all the hype. blah.

    Also, dude, 45 comments on the Simpsons? You know what this means? You can only now write about Lost and The Simpsons. Obviously this is what the people want. And you wouldn’t want to disappoint the people, right?

  47. Steve July 26, 2007 5:16 am

    Where’s the Sarcastic Clerk and officers Lou and Eddie!?!?

  48. chuck July 26, 2007 5:39 am

    grandpas friend with the beard is named Jasper btw. and the aliens names are Kang and Kodos.

  49. [...] The Top 25 Simpsons Supporting Characters [...]

  50. J-Dub July 26, 2007 8:34 am

    Oh my god, where’s Handsome Pete?!?!? This list is null and void without him on it!!!!111!!!1!!

    It’s a subjective list, people. Just enjoy the read and maybe suggest your own, but don’t get mad if the guy you like isn’t on it.

  51. jimbo July 26, 2007 8:42 am

    Glad to see Disco Stu made your top 25, but based on the omissions, there really are too many to mention … to wit: the delinquent trio of Dolph, Kerney and Jimbo Jones.

    Plus, wouldn’t Burns (just to name one on this list) be considered a “lead” character?

  52. Braindead Betty July 26, 2007 9:40 am

    Unibrow Baby for one-time appearances. Also in that category, Quimby’s nephew Frank. And Miss Belle, from the Maison Derriere.

    As far as regulars, what about Agnes Abernathy, aka the Crazy Cat Lady?

  53. bk July 26, 2007 9:53 am

    What about Hans Moleman.
    “I was saying BOOurns”

  54. anneli July 26, 2007 10:00 am

    no barney? :( baby jesus cries for this omission.

  55. Kelbel July 26, 2007 12:45 pm

    #1 on the Westside!

  56. Matt July 26, 2007 1:04 pm

    Barney, Jimbo Jones, Dolph, Kearney, Mrs. Krabapple, Principal Skinner, “Supernintendo” Chalmers, Otto…

  57. Aptiva Dave July 26, 2007 3:35 pm

    Yes to Moleman and Dr. Nick, but a big no to Duffman. Just not funny enough.

  58. Datadog July 27, 2007 12:51 am

    Add Hans Moleman and the Cat Lady and you’ve got a definitive list.

  59. snoop July 27, 2007 8:05 am

    1. move hutz to #1, and knock off the texan
    2. knock off fat tony and replace him with dr. nick
    3. add barney. remove itchy and scratchy. they’re not supporting characters…they’re cartoons!

  60. Travis July 27, 2007 9:40 am

    Just wanted everyone to know that I saw the sneak peak of the movie last night and it does live up to expectations. I was going in expecting to be seriously disappointed, but I was not. Happy viewing, this is a proud day for Simpsons fans. Also, I believe “#1 on the west side is Cookie Kwan”, is that right? What about Martin Prince? And of course Kent Brockman?

  61. Datadog July 27, 2007 10:56 am

    In hindsight, it’s actually pretty hard to decide who counts as a supporting character anymore. I don’t know if I’d count characters like Krusty the Clown, Moe, or Mr. Burns (amongst others) since they’ve had several episodes where they were actually the MAIN characters.

  62. Jason July 27, 2007 12:18 pm

    hey everybody!! this is mr. mcgregg with a leg for an arm and an arm for a leg!! dr. nick rules

  63. [...] The Top Supporting Characters [...]

  64. Fritz July 28, 2007 3:54 pm

    Karl

    http://thumbsnap.com/v/D9bvjT9N.gif

    Karl was a controversial character in an early “gay themed” episode, Simpson and Delilah.

    Not only was the Karl character gay, he kissed Homer. The episode was also the first to hint that Smithers could be gay and is attracted to Mr. Burns.

    The voice of Karl was Harvey Fierstein.

    The episode was pretty ground-breaking 17 years ago.

    BTW: At the time, I worked in a bookstore in Century City. Matt Groening used to come into the store frequently — often signing his Life in Hell books. Several times, he noticed “Fritz” on my name badge and ask, “Fritz, huh? Ever see Fritz the Cat?” I always answered, “No.” He’s quite a character.

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  66. Jay July 30, 2007 6:18 am

    I don’t know how it’s possible that Principal Skinner is not on this list. And, also, let me be the first to say that I would have Edna Krabapple on there as well.

  67. Dan July 30, 2007 1:39 pm

    I seriously don’t know how you didn’t include Ranier Wolfcastle. “Ah! My eyes! De goggles do nothing!”

  68. Yellow Steven July 30, 2007 3:59 pm

    I take it you added Lionel recently?

    Otherwise, these arguments reveal the true beatiful nature of the Simpsons. So many great characters!

  69. Smuckers July 30, 2007 5:22 pm

    What about Bart’s “friend”, Uter the little German exchange student?
    He has salt sticks as candy! Helped

  70. Owen August 1, 2007 1:13 am

    Duff Man’s omission is crazy!

  71. Xooxer August 1, 2007 1:48 am

    I’d just like to point out that the quote you have for Ralph was actually said by Bart. My favorite Ralphie quote is:

    “I bent my Wookie.”

    ~X

  72. Magnum August 1, 2007 8:41 am

    Where’s Moleman? He’s a classic.

  73. Shygrrrl August 1, 2007 11:10 am

    What about poo old Gil??

  74. Shygrrrl August 1, 2007 11:10 am

    I meant to write: poor old Gil.

  75. Shygrrrl August 1, 2007 11:16 am

    The little baby with the unibrow… whats his name? I like him ;)

  76. Mark August 2, 2007 8:13 am

    You could also add homer’s brother Herb

  77. Grant August 2, 2007 7:55 pm

    Sideshow Bob Makes the list But not Otto.. Come on that guys awesome

  78. Hey Apples August 2, 2007 8:59 pm

    In reference to Mr. Burns’ factoid,

    I believe Harry S Truman got SSN 000-00-0001, Roosevelt died while still in office.

  79. unfunky August 2, 2007 9:04 pm

    Awesome work! You might have to expand this out to a top 50 just to satisfy us nerdlingers. I have to correct a couple of comments though, Billy West has always voiced Zapp Brannigan but Matt did want Phil to voice him originally. Itchy and Scratchy first appeared TOGETHER in Steamboat Itchy just like the man said, That Happy Cat only starred Scratchy. Finally, Ralph Wiggum DID say “Me fail english? That’s unpossible!” I should know, it’s my favourite Ralphism. OK, I’m gonna go get a life now!

  80. antsz1 August 2, 2007 10:01 pm

    Wiggum received his job for massaging Quimby with a pistol. Cletus also has a kid that has a head of a fish that they call Kevin. Isnt Gravedigger Billy, willy’s rival?

  81. Sammy August 4, 2007 10:22 am

    even though he’s only in one episode karl has to be there, duffman is a must aswell

  82. time waster August 5, 2007 1:32 am

    baaaaaaaaaaaaarney!

    .

  83. ranma August 6, 2007 11:25 am

    What about:
    Principal Skinner and Bart’s Teacher (i forgot her name)
    Marge’s sisters, Patty and Selma
    And that slow old guy with the thick glasses?!??!?!
    5 grave omissions, tsk, tsk!!!!
    We could have done away with with Professor Frink! Hmmpt!

    But overall its good, man! Thumbs-up! =)

  84. Caleb August 8, 2007 3:46 am

    I love the Simpson Movie!!

  85. Jam August 8, 2007 8:42 am

    How can Principal Skinner not make the list? He’s the master of lame and subtle jokes.. examples:

    Skinner: For Privacy’s sake, lets call her Lisa S… Wait thats to obvious. How about L Simpson.

    -

    Lisa: Bart, does it strike you as odd that Uter disappeared and suddenly they’re serving us this mysterious food called “Uterbraten”?

    Skinner: Oh, relax, kids, I’ve got a gut feeling Uter is around here somewhere. [chuckles] After all, isn’t there a little Uter in all of us? [chuckles] In fact, you might even say we just ate Uter and he’s in our stomachs right now! [laughs] Wait…scratch that one.

  86. Nick August 8, 2007 11:17 pm

    Good list, but where is Barney Gumble?

  87. Sara August 9, 2007 1:01 pm

    Spider Pig, Spider Pig…
    …Does Whatever Spider Pig Does

  88. Sara August 9, 2007 1:04 pm

    How is it that the person above my last message posted their message after me?
    Oh, yes - different time zones.

  89. Dagit August 13, 2007 10:17 pm

    the movie sucked, to much like the newer episodes not enough like the older ones! god dam spider pig, probably the worst part!

  90. joshua August 18, 2007 8:57 pm

    Where is GILL?

  91. Jamie August 20, 2007 7:24 pm

    Simple solution; make the list unlimited by number,then you could include
    Dr.Hibbert, Mrs. Krebopple (sic), Principal Skinner, Otto, Patty & Selma,
    et al.

  92. Aaron September 5, 2007 8:25 pm

    For Honorable mentions what about Jacque the bowling instructor, Roy, Leon Kumpolsky, Mojo the helping monkey, Larry Burns & of course Stompy the Elephant

  93. flibflobfleeb September 7, 2007 5:48 am

    I think the list could defo be rearranged and would need to include Barney Gumble “There’s an exit?”, when sitting in Moes and also Reverand Lovejoy says to Ned “Have you ever thought of another religion, they’re all pretty much the same”.

  94. me September 8, 2007 8:22 pm

    spider pig, spider pig, does whatever a spider pig does, can he swing from a web, no he cant hes a pig!!!!!!!!!! the simpson movie rox!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

  95. Don September 20, 2007 9:06 pm

    What about Homers brother Herb. And just for the good ‘ol times Hugo Bart’s good twin from one of the Halloween episodes.

  96. vicky September 21, 2007 4:19 pm

    WOW lol SIMSPONS

  97. [...] choices (as well as any favorite episodes, quotes, or whatever) in the comments section source: Springfield 25: The Top Simpsons Supporting…, Apropos of [...]

  98. iba November 25, 2007 8:46 am

    wot OlGil should be NO1! he ROX!!!!!!
    :(
    but this is just ur desison

  99. iba November 25, 2007 8:47 am

    wot OlGil should be NO1! he ROX!!!!!!
    :(
    but this is just ur decison
    and btw i luv ur site

  100. iba November 25, 2007 8:48 am

    matt groening should b there also hez been there az well

  101. adj December 23, 2007 1:00 pm

    On the whole great, but the quote for Professor Frink wasn’t said by Professor Frink but by a similar character in Lisa’s genesis tub. Set in the future

  102. Me December 29, 2007 3:07 am

    Seriously Barney needs to be on he’s like top 10 c’mon

  103. anomnous March 10, 2008 9:46 pm

    do you know any quotes for martin prince JR. and do you know any info about martins mum and thanks i need to know today its for an assignment

  104. ffion April 11, 2008 11:30 am

    were is bart eat my shorts

  105. wenna tully May 7, 2008 12:05 pm

    i love the simpson like hell the person i love is lisa simpson she is awsum lol

  106. Shazaaarrrr June 2, 2008 9:55 am

    Wheres barney !!!!!! Buuuurrrrrrrppppp =p

  107. Rachel June 19, 2008 4:06 pm

    I think some of them, like Grandpa and Disco Stu should be switched, but other than that great job!

  108. albert June 21, 2008 3:54 am

    Please Put Old lady crazy cat something else

  109. nick November 4, 2008 7:18 am

    you should put hans moleman there YOU CALL THAT A KNIFE THIS IS A KNIFE (PULLS KNIFE OUT) ARRR DOWN I GO

  110. protectSSN December 27, 2008 3:43 pm

    Great post. Thanks for sharing!
    I also recommend you to order an SSN and ID protect plan. Check out at my website.483

  111. kitten December 28, 2008 6:02 pm

    sideshow bob!! :D

  112. John Stossel December 29, 2008 12:26 pm

    LOL, priceless dude, you did indeed pick some good ones. Chief Wiggum has always been one of my favs!

    Jess
    http://www.internet-anonymity.net.tc

  113. Lucas December 29, 2008 12:33 pm

    Great list! Most of these characters are so ingrained into the world of The Simpsons, I don’t consider them supporting anymore. If there were a list of the top supporting-supporting characters, I would love to see Cookie Kwan, Lindsay Neagle, and (of course) ol’ Gil!

  114. meneame.net December 29, 2008 1:01 pm

    Los 25 mejores personajes secundarios de ‘Los Simpson’…

    Una de las muchas cosas que hace de ‘Los Simpson’ una gran serie es el enorme elenco de personajes de apoyo. Este blog recoge una ranking con los que considera que son los 25 mejores personajes secundarios, su cita más memorable y alguna anécdota s…

  115. Corey December 29, 2008 1:16 pm

    couldn’t rank ol’ Gil?

  116. Dave December 29, 2008 1:37 pm

    what about DUFF man?!?!

    Duffman thrusting in the direction of the problem!

    Duffman: Hey Duff lovers! Does anyone in this bar loooove Duff?
    Carl: Hey, it’s Duffman!
    Lenny: Newsweek said you died of liver failure.
    Duffman: Duffman can never die, only the actors who play him. Ooh yeah!

    Titanya: But Duffman, you said if I slept with you I wouldn’t have to touch the drunk!
    Duffman: Duffman… says a lot of things! Oh, yeah!

    Duffman: Duffman’s pension has been mis-managed…ooooh yeah!

  117. Sameer December 29, 2008 1:51 pm

    Missing characters: Barney, Patty and Salma and Skinner

  118. parothed December 29, 2008 2:39 pm

    Greased Up Def Guy has been omitted. This is a travesty to all humanity. I don’t care if he’s a member of a different show. Greased Up Def Guy should be #1 on any list that has “supporting character” in its title!

  119. pigpen December 29, 2008 2:48 pm

    what about hans moleman? and ol’ gill? two of my faves.

  120. T December 29, 2008 3:01 pm

    Nobody likes old Gil.

  121. John December 29, 2008 3:46 pm

    No, Rev. Lovejoy?

    Flanders and Lovejoy can’t be apart!

  122. jliketheletter December 29, 2008 4:33 pm

    Everybody knows G’pa Simpson is the best supporting character..

    “One way to get rid of them is to tell ‘em stories that don’t go anywhere. Like the time we went over to shelbyville during the war, I wore an onion on my belt….which was the style at the time…you couldn’t get those white ones, you could only get those big yellow ones……………..now where was I……..oh yeah, the important thing was I was wearing an onion on my belt, which was the style at the time, you couldn’t get those..”

  123. Alan December 29, 2008 5:34 pm

    Just to clear up the whole Zapp Brannigan thing. Phil Hartman never voiced the character but it was originally planned for him to voice it. He died before they started recording the episodes. Billy West gave the character a Hartman-esque sound to honor this.

    As for the quotes I believe there are better ones for some of these characters. I would list them but Its been a while and I dont want to butcher them. But one of my favorite Lionel Hutz exchanges:

    Hutz: “Ooh we got Judge Roberts. Hes sort of had it in for me since I kinda ran over his dog. Well replace the words ‘kind of’ with ‘repeatedly’ and ‘dog’ with ’son.’”

    (I might have the judge name wrong.)

  124. Lex December 29, 2008 5:49 pm

    What no Hank Scorpio? And doesn’t Gil get a lick of that brass ring? I’d leave Disco Stu off the list, he’s a one note character who wore out his welcome years ago.

  125. David December 29, 2008 8:29 pm

    Hank Scorpio is one of the greatest single episode characters ever. I would guess he isn’t on the list because he hasn’t returned and all these characters have been in at least a few episodes. Also, I don’t know why everyone is crying about Lionel Hutz not being on the list. He is tied with Troy McClure at #6.

  126. Meegh December 29, 2008 9:26 pm

    You´ve got to include the ¨french¨ waiter/salesman/etc. Yeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeesssssssssssss???!!!!!!!!

  127. jimbo December 30, 2008 12:36 am

    Worst list ever

  128. dunx December 30, 2008 1:10 am

    I really like the background on this site. It’s neat.

  129. Matt December 30, 2008 2:14 am

    Need Gil and Principal Skinner!!!

  130. Jess December 30, 2008 9:48 am

    Well I have read most of the comments as I re-edited mine several times, trying to think of the best of the best omitted characters. You guys basically mentioned all.

    I insist on a bigger list!

    or maybe, a more detailed list. The list is great but flawed. Burns, Wigum, Krusty, Ned, Smither, & Grandpa are all regulars. Characters like the Sea Captain and comic book guy are more like supporting roles than the previously mentioned.

    I see a massive restructuring in my head already…. wee!

  131. foundbypat.com December 30, 2008 12:18 pm

    “My name is Otto, and I love to get blotto!”

  132. Greg December 30, 2008 4:16 pm

    What about the quote for Lionel Hutz when he’s selling homes and Marge is walking home…”If you lived here you’d be home by now!”

    Also, I agree with everyone that this list should be longer, Itchy & Scratchy should not be on it, how is Grandpa a supporting character when his last name is the name of the show? I assume by supporting characters you mean everyone who is not Marge, Homer, Bart, Lisa, and Maggie? Disco Stu should not be on this list. Let’s all face it, the Professor Frink quote is him even if it was in the future.

    Gil, the pimply faced squeaky voice teen, Hans Moleman, and the old guy with the big nose (Jasper?) should all be on there.

  133. jack December 30, 2008 6:23 pm

    HANK SCORPIO.
    i dare you to name one other character who was funnier in a single episode. lionel hutz dosnt count because phil hartman is a god and no one can compare

    when have you ever really laughed at pati selma or principal skinner. half of the suggestions are just junk. every needs to go back and watch seasons 5-9 they are simply the best. they died right around season 11

  134. dave January 11, 2009 5:44 am

    What about the quote for Lionel Hutz when he’s selling homes and Marge is walking home…”If you lived here you’d be home by now!”

    Also, I agree with everyone that this list should be longer, Itchy & Scratchy should not be on it, how is Grandpa a supporting character when his last name is the name of the show? I assume by supporting characters you mean everyone who is not Marge, Homer, Bart, Lisa, and Maggie? Disco Stu should not be on this list. Let’s all face it, the Professor Frink quote is him even if it was in the future.

    Gil, the pimply faced squeaky voice teen, Hans Moleman, and the old guy with the big nose (Jasper?) should all be on there..

  135. alizee January 19, 2009 5:05 am

    Worst list ever.

  136. stopudov January 20, 2009 8:16 am

    spider pig, spider pig, does whatever a spider pig does, can he swing from a web, no he cant hes a pig!!!!!!!!!! the simpson movie rox!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

  137. Naruto January 31, 2009 11:36 am

    abu and flanders are definitely my favorite ones. also lol @ spider pig

  138. Brianna February 1, 2009 6:58 pm

    that’s crazy, i think fat tony is definately the best character on the simpsons!


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