35 Years Ago, The Simpsons Debuted Its Best Side Character Ever (Who Sadly Can Never Return)

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Thirty-five years ago, an episode of The Simpsons introduced several of its most beloved supporting characters. One of these characters stands out as the best, but unfortunately, they can no longer appear in new episodes. With The Simpsons now in its 37th season, the show has added many funny and memorable faces to the town of Springfield over the years. However, a number of characters have been written off the show as time has gone on.

Thirty-five years ago, on January 10, 1991, The Simpsons debuted a guest character who became one of the most memorable in the show’s history: Lionel Hutz. Voiced by the incredibly talented Phil Hartman, Hutz appeared in many episodes during the early seasons and was a huge hit. Sadly, after Hartman’s passing, the character was retired, as the show’s creators felt no one could replicate his brilliant performance.

Lionel Hutz Debuted in The Simpsons 35 Years Ago

Thirty-five years ago, The Simpsons aired “Bart Gets Hit By a Car,” an episode where Bart is, as the title suggests, hit by a car—Mr. Burns’ car, to be exact. While Bart isn’t seriously hurt, Mr. Burns’ unwillingness to pay for his medical bills leads to a lawsuit. This is when Lionel Hutz enters the scene, eager to take the case. He immediately appears suspicious and hilariously exaggerates Bart’s injuries to try and win a larger settlement.

This episode introduces two characters who will reappear later in the series. Bart is taken to the questionable Dr. Nick Riviera for treatment of injuries that aren’t really that bad. Meanwhile, Mr. Burns’ lawyer – who is never actually named, but is known for their blue hair – argues his case. Things start to unravel when Homer’s determination to win a million dollars from Burns worries Marge. She exposes Dr. Riviera as a fraud, which unfortunately gives Burns the advantage he needs to win the lawsuit.

I noticed a big change in Lionel Hutz over time. When he first appeared, he was mostly just a shady lawyer. Later on, he kept popping up whenever the Simpsons needed legal help, but he became increasingly incompetent – way more than just a little dishonest. His life also got much sillier, and he’d take on any ridiculous job just to make some money, though there was always a scam involved with whatever he was doing.

What Happened to Lionel Hutz?

As a huge Simpsons fan, it always bummed me out that Lionel Hutz disappeared after Season 9’s “Realty Bites.” Of course, it was after Phil Hartman sadly passed away. I recently learned they actually considered recasting the role to keep Hutz alive in future episodes! Can you believe that? Ultimately, they decided to retire him alongside Troy McClure as a tribute to Phil. That’s why, even in later seasons with plenty of courtroom scenes where Hutz would have been perfect, he just never showed up. It’s a bittersweet thing, knowing they honored Phil that way, but I still miss seeing that wonderfully sleazy lawyer!

Lionel Hutz and Troy McClure were iconic characters who perfectly captured the spirit of The Simpsons during what many fans remember as its best years. While the show introduced other memorable side characters after they left, none quite matched the unique energy that Phil Hartman brought to those roles. Hutz remains a fan favorite, and many wish he could return, but sadly, that will never be possible.

Retiring the characters Phil Hartman voiced was the best decision, rather than trying to find someone new to play them. Fans connected with his specific performances, and he had a unique talent for making even unlikeable characters, like Lionel Hutz, endearing and someone you could root for. No one could have captured that same nuance, and that’s why The Simpsons hasn’t quite felt complete since he left. His absence is still deeply felt, both on the show and in the world.

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2026-01-14 00:40