I Know Nobody Else Would Call This The Best Episode Of The Simpsons, But Here’s Why “Girly Edition” Will Always Be My Favorite

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I’ve seen all episodes of The Simpsons starting from 1989. That means I am quite the devoted fan, doesn’t it? But let me tell you, it also means I’m getting up there in age!

For around 35 years now, I’ve been a loyal viewer of America’s most beloved sitcom, and it brings me joy to have grown up alongside the Simpson family. I’ve shared this delightful show with my own family, and it has even transformed my daughter into an ardent fan (an achievement that fills me with pride, yet gives me a touch of concern too).

Among all the episodes, there’s one that I always find myself drawn to most – Season 9’s “Girly Edition,” where Bart and Lisa host a children’s news show. This might not be everyone’s pick for the “Best Simpsons episode of all time” (but trust me, it’s worth watching), but let me explain why I love it so much.

First Off, It Has My All-Time Favorite Simpsons Gag With The Introduction Of The Cat Lady

Among many Simpson characters that bring laughter, one often overlooked yet deserving of more recognition is Eleanor Abernathy, also known as the Crazy Cat Lady.

In upcoming episodes, we uncover more about her past, which is heartbreakingly sad as she’s a hoarder. Moreover, in “Springfield Up,” it’s revealed that Eleanor completed education at both Harvard and Yale when she was young. Consequently, much like other characters on The Simpsons, the writers have crafted a deep and detailed history for her.

But, among all her appearances, the one that stands out most to me is the initial scene featuring her, specifically from “Girly Edition”. In retaliation for Bart’s mischief, Lisa goes to see an elderly woman often referred to as “The Cat Lady.

Lisa suggests that some people might think she’s a bit unconventional due to her many cats (she has more than a dozen, but less than a full dozen). She wonders if someone who loves animals so deeply could truly be considered crazy. However, what followed left her in stitches – a woman opened her door and began tossing cats at Lisa! In all my years of watching The Simpsons, I’ve never laughed as hard as during this exact moment. And the subsequent train scene? Absolutely brilliant.

It Also Has A Great A Story Involving Both Bart And Lisa

To be frank, despite being part of the Bartmania craze, I’m not particularly fond of Bart Simpson as a character. However, Lisa grows on me; she subtly delivers some of the funniest lines in the series. As for Bart, the more mature I become, the stronger the urge to squeeze him like Homer does!

It’s enjoyable to witness an installment that aligns perfectly with Bart’s persona, and I believe a significant portion of this success can be attributed to Lisa, as they interact brilliantly throughout the episode. In the primary narrative, Bart picks up on Lisa expressing her opinion about his lack of intelligence, which fuels his desire to outshine her in every opportunity that presents itself.

And yet, Bart manages to outshine her! This is because Bart possesses something that Lisa lacks – let’s call it “pizzazz,” “pop,” or “wow-factor.” Whatever it may be, Bart has it, and when he transforms the Kidz Newz show into a sentimental mess, Lisa attempts to counter him…but fails spectacularly.

Everything culminates at last, a topic I’ll delve into soon. What truly captivates me is how Bart and Lisa share an abundance of hilarious jokes throughout almost the entire episode. It’s not common for a Simpsons tale to be exceptional, but here’s something truly extraordinary: a story that consistently delivers humor.

Not Only That, But It Has My Favorite B Story Of All Time With Mojo, The Helper Monkey

Previously, I noted that the A story serves as the main narrative, thus implying that the B story functions as a side plot or subplot. In the context of “The Simpsons”, these B stories tend to be either entertaining or less successful, particularly during the later seasons.

In the “Girly Edition,” it’s possible that the B story could be more amusing than the A story. Homer, known for his laziness, acquires a helper monkey, but things take a turn for the worse. The monkey rapidly gains weight and soon requires a diaper to manage it.

Among my cherished scenes is one where Mojo, the monkey, is seen laughing from atop a dresser, startling Lisa. This moment never fails to make me laugh out loud. Additionally, I find it amusing when Homer instructs Mojo to dance for Marge, resulting in the monkey awkwardly colliding with the wall, gasping for breath.

Have you ever come across the band Mustard Plug? Much like Fall Out Boy derived their name from a reference on The Simpsons, Mustard Plug titled one of their albums “Pray for Mojo” in 1999, inspired by the famous scene where a dying monkey is left on a doorstep and types out the words: Pray…for…Mojo. I can’t help but burst into laughter every time I rewatch this episode. It never fails to amuse me!

The Pay-Off Involving Groundskeeper Willie Is Genuinely Surprising

Would you like to hear about another character I really enjoy? That’s Ned Flanders. He’s got some truly unforgettable episodes, and if you’re a dedicated fan, you won’t miss his fascinating background story which is one of the richest in the whole show.

Absolutely, Ned has received ample attention for his narratives, but there’s another character who I find intriguing but feels underrepresented: Groundskeeper Willie. While he had a memorable appearance in “My Fair Laddy,” and is often featured in the Treehouse of Horror series, it’s fair to say that he hasn’t been given as many captivating stories as characters like Barney, Moe, Ned, or Mr. Burns.

It’s interesting to notice how significant the part of the school caretaker, Willie, is in this particular episode. Bart pulls a prank on Willie, ruining his cherished little shack using canned corn, leaving Willie without a home and vowing retaliation against Bart.

In this overloaded episode, you might find yourself momentarily forgetting about Willie’s initial threat at the start of the narrative. However, when Lisa dispatches Bart on a seemingly routine task to aid an immigrant in distress, it comes as quite a shock that the immigrant is none other than Willie! This unexpected turn of events is well-executed, and I appreciate how skillfully Lisa convinces Willie not to harm her brother. It’s a clever resolution, and it pays off effectively! Superb work.

Lastly, The Mattel And Mars Bar Quick Energy Chocobot Hour Is Such A Great Ending To The Whole Thing

Prior to the release of the Barbie film, the concept of creating a series or film based on Mattel toys or Mars Bars felt more like a sarcastic jest rather than a serious proposition.

Following the Academy Award-nominated film that demonstrated the essence of a compelling story based on a beloved toy, one might think anything could be achieved. But let me assure you, the Mattel and Mars Bar Quick Energy Chocobot Hour is far from being prestigious. In fact, much like a classic episode of The Simpsons, it’s just as satirical as you’d expect.

Occasionally, it seems like Bart and Lisa’s news team are on the right path, but their program gets replaced by an extended advertisement instead. The irony is hilarious. For instance, when the boss instructs his underling to abandon his toy so they can embark on a heroic mission, the camera zooms in on the toy before they take flight. It’s an amusing twist to what I consider a flawlessly crafted episode.

Of course, How about this? Do you happen to have “Girly Edition” among your top favorite episodes of The Simpsons? I’m eager to know what you think!

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2025-08-05 21:25