Who doesn't know the cult Simpsons characters? This offbeat family—Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa, and little Maggie—has been delighting audiences in their hit show for over 30 seasons. Created by the genius Matt Groening, the wacky adventures of these heroes are a staple in Springfield.
But beyond the Simpson family, the show is filled with other equally hilarious Simpsons characters. From Krusty the Clown to Apu and Mr. Burns, each appearance brings a fresh dose of humor to the episodes. Rediscover them all right here!
The Simpson Family
In the small town of Springfield lives a rather unconventional family: the Simpsons. Behind their suburban home is a joyful mess... Let’s meet these vibrant personalities!
Homer Simpson: The Clumsy Dad
When you think of the caricature of the average American, it’s hard to top Homer Simpson! This dad embodies every stereotype: lazy, not very bright, chubby, and the list goes on. By day, he drags his feet at the Springfield Nuclear Power Plant under the command of Mr. Burns.
By night, his program? Slouching in front of the TV, knocking back several Duff beers and devouring donuts endlessly. Never bother him during a football game, or you’ll hear his famous “D’oh!” exclamation. And if he’s not at home, he’s probably at Moe’s Tavern with his pals Carl, Lenny, and Barney.
Yet behind his facade of an irresponsible, selfish man-child, Homer deeply loves his wife Marge and their three kids, Bart, Lisa, and little Maggie. His favorite pastime? Annoying his goody-two-shoes neighbor Ned Flanders, his total opposite… He just can’t help himself!
Marge Simpson: The Mother Hen
If Homer is the image of the typical American man, his wife Marge represents the perfect 1950s housewife. Easily recognized by her ever-present blue hair, she’s smart and kind. Despite her raspy voice and the nonstop antics of her husband and son Bart, she always keeps calm. Homer and Marge have been together since high school, so she’s used to it by now!
This devoted stay-at-home mom handles everything: housework, childcare, and sometimes a part-time job. Her dream? Keeping her family united and happy. But with a husband as scatterbrained as Homer, she often feels like she’s raising a fourth child! Still, Marge remains endlessly optimistic and unwaveringly devoted to her family.
Bart Simpson: The Troublemaker
If you have a kid at Springfield Elementary, watch out for Bart Simpson! This 10-year-old prankster, a skateboard fanatic, is every teacher’s nightmare and the principal’s worst enemy. With his best friend Milhouse, Bart racks up pranks and detention hours.
Yet behind his rebellious exterior lies a big heart. Bart loves making people laugh, just like his idol, Krusty the Clown. Over the seasons, we’ve seen him save Sideshow Bob from an avalanche and help his dad keep his job. Despite his mischief, his family always comes first for this endearing kid. And really, who hasn’t dreamed of being a bit like Bart at that age?
Lisa Simpson: The Gifted One
In the Simpson family, Lisa stands out like an alien! This 8-year-old model student at Springfield Elementary is exceptionally intelligent. When she’s not buried in books, she’s playing the saxophone like a pro.
But Lisa is more than just a brainy kid. She’s also a staunch idealist, always ready to fight for her beliefs. Remember when she decided to become a vegetarian to protect animals? Or when she started a movement to save the rainforests?
Fortunately, her little brother Bart is around to bring her back to Earth sometimes. Although she often argues with her prankster sibling, Lisa truly cares for him. One thing’s for sure, this little girl’s future is bright!
Maggie Simpson: Never Without Her Pacifier
Maggie is a real enigma! This tiny toddler with her famous pacifier never utters a word. Yet behind her big innocent eyes lies a rare intelligence.
Maggie quietly observes everything around her with great composure. Nothing surprises her, whether it’s Bart’s mischief or Homer’s antics. She has even saved her father from a few perilous situations… including that time the mob tried to kidnap him.
Despite her very young age, Maggie displays remarkable maturity. Who knows what’s brewing in that little mind? One thing is certain: this silent child has a lot going on upstairs! She might just be the next genius in the family.
Abraham Simpson: The Grumpy Grandpa
Abraham Simpson is the family patriarch, living at the Springfield Retirement Castle. This cantankerous veteran is never at a loss for words!
Grandpa Simpson spends his days grumbling and reminiscing about the “good old days.” You’ll often hear him repeat, “Things were better in my time!” His outlandish tales from his youth and World War II days tend to be far-fetched.
But Grandpa loves teasing his grandchildren Bart, Lisa, and Maggie whenever they visit. And he doesn’t hesitate to cover for them when they get into trouble! Despite his advanced age, this grandpa remains quite a character.
The Residents of Springfield
The Simpson family isn’t the only group bringing life to this town. Springfield is packed with equally offbeat and endearing folks. From the grouchy bartender to the diabolical boss, and that annoyingly nice neighbor, meet the must-see Simpsons characters!
Barney Gumble: Homer’s Best Friend
Barney is the resident alcoholic at Moe’s Tavern! This former serviceman spends his days downing beer after beer, slumped over the counter. When he’s not totally plastered, Barney hangs out with his friends Homer, Lenny, and Carl. Together, they get into mischief like a bunch of ten-year-olds.
Despite his drinking problem, Barney remains a loyal and endearing friend. After all, who doesn’t have a little bit of Barney in them?
Ned Flanders: The (Overly) Nice Neighbor
Ned Flanders, the perfect and naive neighbor, is Homer Simpson’s antithesis. A devout Christian, he once lived with his wife Maude before remarrying Edna Krabappel. He spends his time gardening and going to church.
Despite his efforts to be impeccable, Ned irritates Homer—who never misses a chance to tease him. Granted, his “Hidely-ho, neighborino!” could drive anyone insane...
Yet behind his straight-laced facade, Ned has some slightly disturbing secrets. Everyone needs a little mystery, right? Edna and he must have their own private world.
Moe Szyslak: The Bartender
Moe is the forlorn owner of the shabbiest bar in Springfield. Standing behind his counter, this balding grouch serves a bitter pint to his regulars. When Homer and his buddies aren’t around to hassle him, Moe broods over his lonely bachelor life… His few romantic endeavors never last.
Still, despite his grumpy exterior, Moe is oddly lovable and can surprise you when you least expect it. Like the time he helped Homer and the gang pursue their dream of forming a rock band!
Seymour Skinner: The School Principal
Principal Skinner is Bart Simpson’s worst nightmare! His time as a POW in Vietnam shaped his strict, authoritarian nature. No wonder he’s forever on Bart’s case, handing out detentions left and right.
All Skinner wants is for his school to be a model of discipline. Unfortunately, his overbearing mother, Agnes, an ex-military woman, can’t help interfering in everything! To top it off, he’s secretly in love with Mrs. Krabappel, Bart’s teacher.
Sometimes, though, Principal Skinner reveals a softer side… He’s a man full of surprises!
Montgomery Burns: The Evil Boss
Mr. Burns is the wealthiest and most powerful man in Springfield. This elderly figure from another era rules the nuclear power plant with an iron fist. Accompanied by his faithful lackey Smithers, Burns is constantly scheming to boost his profits. The well-being of his employees is the least of his concerns… especially if that employee is Homer!
Behind his frail appearance lurks a ruthless businessman, willing to do anything to maintain his empire—even unleashing the Springfield Strangler to take care of his enemies. A true cartoon villain!
Supporting Characters
The world Matt Groening created wouldn’t be complete without its supporting cast, as zany as they are indispensable! From Bart and Lisa’s classmates to other quirky individuals, these additional heroes enliven every episode.
Bart’s Friends: Milhouse, Nelson, and Ralph
Bart Simpson wouldn’t be the same without his pals at Springfield Elementary! His best friend is Milhouse Van Houten, this naive kid who follows Bart everywhere like a puppy. With his glasses, wild blue hair, and bird-like nose, Milhouse is often the butt of jokes. The poor guy also secretly has a crush on Lisa!
Nelson Muntz, meanwhile, is the schoolyard bully. This cocky kid with a buzz cut takes great pleasure in picking on others. When he lets out his toothless laugh, it’s a sign someone is about to get hurt!
And then there’s Ralph Wiggum, the police chief’s son. He’s the epitome of the innocent child—but such a sweet soul despite his cluelessness.
All in all, a wild bunch of kids who keep Skinner on his toes!
Lisa’s Classmates: Martin and Twins Sherri and Terri
At school, Lisa often hangs out with Martin Prince, the class genius. This bright kid in glasses and a yellow sweater is praised for his high IQ but also teased by the bullies. Thankfully, he’s got Lisa on his side, sharing the same love for knowledge!
Lisa also has to deal with Sherri and Terri, the twin sisters. These two purple-haired pranksters in blue dresses never miss a chance to tease her. But Lisa knows how to handle their antics—she’s the smartest of the bunch, after all!
Springfield’s Authority: Chief Wiggum and Mayor Quimby
In Springfield, both law enforcement and politics are in “capable” hands! On one side, we have Chief Clancy Wiggum, the worst police officer of all time, who’d rather gorge on donuts in front of the TV than chase criminals. Good thing his son Ralph keeps him somewhat grounded!
As for Mayor Joe Quimby, he’s a corrupt politician through and through. This perennial charmer in a blue suit and tricolor sash spends his time conning voters and cheating on his wife. Think John F. Kennedy meets the 21st century!
Between Wiggum’s blatant incompetence and Quimby’s shameless corruption, it’s a wonder Springfield still stands. But maybe that’s part of this crazy town’s charm!
Unusual Characters: Apu, Krusty, and Professor Frink
Every episode in Springfield is full of twists, but where would the town be without Apu, the Kwik-E-Mart owner? This little fellow from India, with his turban and apron, actually holds a PhD in Computer Science! A hard worker, he also has eight children with his wife (in a polygamous relationship). Quite the character!
What about Krusty the Clown, Bart’s idol? Behind that goofy clown persona, he’s a true anti-hero, a joker, and a goofball all in one. Krusty entertains the kids with his silly acts and the adults with his hilariously clumsy side, along with his money and relationship woes—it’s all comedic gold!
And then there’s Professor Frink, the mad scientist who brings a welcome dose of eccentricity to Springfield with his wacky inventions. Sporting disheveled gray hair, crazy glasses, and a bow tie, he’s the embodiment of a nutty genius.
The Simpsons as a Reflection of Society
Ultimately, The Simpsons are more than just caricatured figures. They mirror the flaws, aspirations, and contradictions of modern American society. From Homer, the basic American man, to Marge, the housewife, or Bart, the rebel, and Lisa, the idealist—each one is an archetype.
But isn’t there a bit of each of us in these Simpsons characters? Are we really that different from this crazy family deep down? Let us know what you think in the comments. By the way, who is your favorite character?
Our other articles about The Simpsons: