The Best Characters On The Simpsons, Ranked (2024)

The Simpsons is one of the most iconic adult animated sitcoms of all time. It first debuted in 1989, introducing audiences everywhere to Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa and Maggie Simpson. The Simpsons is the longest-running American animated series, the longest-running American sitcom and the longest-running American scripted primetime television series. With 35 seasons and over 750 episodes, The Simpsons has introduced hundreds of characters to its fans.

Some of these Simpsons characters make a one-time appearance in an episode. Other characters grow to be so popular they return to the show multiple times. The best Simpsons characters are the ones that everyone remembers, even if they aren't part of every single Simpsons episode. Either because of their quirks, hilarious quotes, or memorable storylines that became staples in the show, some Simpsons characters stand out more than others among fans.

Updated August 25, 2024 by Lynette Guzman: With several recurring characters and returning guest stars, fans often debate who the best Simpsons characters are. This article has been expanded to include more longtime fan favorites, including some of the funniest and most popular Simpsons characters. Additionally, the formatting has been updated to meet current CBR guidelines.

25 Herb Powell Is Homer Simpson's Polar Opposite

Homer’s Brother Is a Simpsons Fan-Favorite Guest Star

Homer Simpson's older half-brother, Herb Powell, has a key role in the extended Simpson family. As the illegitimate child of Grampa Abe Simpson and a carnival woman, Herb's existence was initially hidden from Homer. But shortly after a near-death experience, Abe reveals the truth about Herb to Homer, leading him to track down his half-brother. Herb had a successful career as the CEO of Powell Motor Company and let Homer design a car, which ultimately resulted in the bankruptcy of Herb's company.

Voiced by the famous Danny DeVito, Herb quickly became one of the most memorable Simpsons characters. Though Herb looks a lot like Homer, his Harvard education and self-made success provide viewers with a foil to Homer's shenanigans. DeVito, one of the most popular guest stars among fans, reprises Herb Powell in the Season 36 premiere of The Simpsons, "Bart's Birthday," giving viewers another glimpse of Homer's long-lost brother. Despite being a definite fan-favorite, Herb Powell comes in at the bottom of the list because there are so many treasured characters, the competition for number one is steep.

24 Santa’s Little Helper Is the Most Reliable Simpson

Not Every Member of the Simpsons Family is Human

The Simpson family would not be complete without a trusted furry companion. Santa's Little Helper was introduced in the first episode of The Simpsons, aptly named to match the theme of the 1989 Christmas special. When Homer and Bart go to a greyhound racetrack, Homer bets on dog "No. 8," Santa's Little Helper, despite the poor odds. After finishing in last place, Santa's Little Helper's owner abandons him and runs straight to Homer and Bart. Initially, Homer rejects the dog but realizes that Santa's Little Helper has all the qualities of being a Simpson.

Though the Simpson family pet often has minor appearances in the show, Santa's Little Helper is one of the most recognizable Simpsons characters as one of the few animals in the series. Fans have also enjoyed seeing Santa's Little Helper featured in other Simpsons media, like video games, board games and comics. Santa's Little Helper does have the spotlight in a handful of Simpsons episodes, though, and even becomes a local hero in the Springfield Animal Police Academy after saving Homer who was lost in a cornmaze. Animal-loving Simpsons fans love this loyal companion, regardless of whether he is in the background or leading the story in episodes.

23 Dr. Nick Riviera's Joy Is Infectious, Literally

Hilariously Underqualified to Perform Homer's Open-Heart Surgery

While incompetent due to questionable medical training, Dr. Nick tries his best to give his patients the best health care possible, sometimes with outrageous consequences. The now iconic "Hi, everybody!" catchphrase is a staple in The Simpsons fandom. Every fan has replied "Hi, Dr. Nick!" at least once when the hilarious Dr. Nick Riviera appears on the screen. Dr. Nick also appears in The Simpsons Road Rage video game where he tells players, "Send me to the hospital, I pretend I work there."

As one of the funniest Simpsons characters, Dr. Nick Riviera has been a part of many popular fan-favorite moments on the show. In particular, Dr. Nick operates on Homer Simpson when Homer needs triple bypass heart surgery, though he does need to watch a video to learn how to perform the surgery. And while he appeared to be killed in The Simpsons Movie, fans can rest assured that Dr. Nick was never actually killed off in The Simpsons. Though fans may never want a doctor like Dr. Nick in real life, they love his charisma and cheerfulness, which provides a pleasant contrast to other Simpsons characters.

22 Fat Tony's Massive Popularity Made Him an Immortal Villain

The Simpsons Bring Mafia Satire to Springfield

Don Marion Anthony D'Amico, or Fat Tony, debuted in The Simpsons' third season. And ever since, Fat Tony has been an irredeemable crime boss of the Springfield Mafia, though that hasn't stopped him from being a favorite character among fans as one of Springfield's most notable residents. Fat Tony's design is inspired by Paul Sorvino's mobster character in Goodfellas, Paul Cicero, which sets him apart as a memorable side character in the show.

The Simpsons mob boss has always been a favorite villain among viewers. Fat Tony was so popular with fans that even though he died, The Simpsons found a way to replace him almost instantly. In Season 22's "Donnie Fatso," Fat Tony dies of a heart attack and his cousin, Fit Tony, takes his place. But it doesn't take long for Fit Tony to stress-eat due to the pressure of criminal life, and he slowly becomes a carbon copy of Fat Tony. Criminal Minds' Joe Mantegna gives voice to both versions of Fat Tony, basing the character on his uncle's voice, and provides fans with a recurring Simpsons criminal they love to see.

21 Troy McClure Proves Small Roles Can Have a Big Impact

Fans Will Always Remember This Simpsons Icon

Troy McClure is an extremely popular Simpsons character with fans, even though he stopped appearing after The Simpsons' tenth season. As a washed-up Hollywood actor, Troy McClure's popular catchphrase "Hi, I'm Troy McClure. You may remember me from..." is now a part of pop culture forever. Troy McClure's marriage to Selma Bouvier, Marge Simpson's sister, technically made him a part of the Simpson family for a brief moment.

Though a minor character, Troy McClure left a big mark on The Simpsons, and he's still a beloved and popular character even today among fans. Phil Hartman gave voice to the character until his sudden passing in 1998. Since then, The Simpsons retired Troy McClure, with the character only appearing in the background of some episodes, but fans continue to show love for this memorable character.

20 Lionel Hutz Will Win a Court Case in 30 Minutes

This Lawyer Is on the Simpson's Family Speed Dial

Lionel Hutz is the incompetent, disbarred Springfield lawyer audiences can't help but root for. While he didn't win cases, the Simpson family repeatedly hired Lionel Hutz as their lawyer throughout the series. Despite his poor success rate in the courtroom, Lionel Hutz wins the public (and Simpsons fans) every time he's on-screen with his outrageous screw-ups and hilarious one-liners.

SNL's Phil Hartman gave voice to Lionel Hutz until his sudden death. And like with Troy McClure, Lionel Hutz stopped appearing in The Simpsons, except for some background cameos. Yet even if the character hasn't been part of The Simpsons since season nine, Lionel Hutz remains an iconic and popular resident of Springfield. To this day, fans fondly remember the shady Springfield lawyer with Lionel Hutz appreciation posts filled with their favorite moments and quotes. However, Lionel Hutz holds the number 20 spot on this list because of his short-lived run compared to many other longstanding Simpsons characters.

19 Milhouse Van Houten Is Bart's Nerdy Better Half

Bart Simpson's Partner in Crime Is Key to Wild Shenanigans

As Bart's best friend and sidekick, Milhouse Van Houten goes along with all of Bart's pranks. He's hopelessly in love with Bart's sister, Lisa Simpson, who refuses Milhouse's affections more than once. Despite often being the butt of jokes and getting bullied by many of his Springfield Elementary classmates, Milhouse's resilience and carefree nature never wavers, which is why Simpsons fans gravitate to his character.

Bart can take advantage of Milhouse's innocence and insecurities sometimes. Yet Milhouse can still defend himself or go against his best friend from time to time. Bart wouldn't be the same without Milhouse's friendship and willingness to take part in his pranks, which makes Milhouse an important character in The Simpsons. Fans agree that when it comes to iconic Simpsons characters, "Everything's coming up Milhouse!"

18 Groundskeeper Willie Is the Unsung Hero of Springfield Elementary

One of the Best Simpsons Characters Is a Quotable Scotsman

Willie McDougal, more commonly known as Groundskeeper Willie, is an unforgettable recurring Simpsons character. Willie's recognizable red hair, Scottish accent and short temper make him a source of entertainment for viewers. As the groundskeeper of Springfield Elementary School, Willie often comes into conflict with Bart Simpson, who unsurprisingly plays many practical jokes on him. In retaliation, Willie has occasionally framed Bart for pranks he didn't commit, continuing the saga for longtime fans of The Simpsons.

Groundskeeper Willie initially did not have a specific accent because the character was intended to have a one-off appearance in The Simpsons. But Dan Castellaneta experimented with a few options in the recording booth and landed on Willie's iconic voice. Simpsons fans enjoy Groundskeeper Willie's off-the-cuff one-liners and angry rants as he spends his days tending to Springfield Elementary. Though Willie may not get the appreciation he deserves from Springfield students, he has a legacy of being a fan-favorite Simpsons character.

17 Krusty The Clown Is Springfield's Best Celebrity

Even Homer Simpson Wants to Be Like Krusty

The Krusty the Clown Show and The Itchy & Scratchy Show cartoons are central to many stories in The Simpsons, providing fans with fun fictional TV show characters within a fictional TV show. Krusty is Bart's hero and a hilarious TV clown, but in real life, he is the complete opposite of his TV personality and becomes a burned-out, cynical person. Simpsons creator Matt Groening took inspiration from a real-life clown named "Rusty Nails" to develop the Krusty character.

Many fan-favorite Simpsons moments revolve around Krusty and his connection to other Simpsons villains, such as when his TV assistant Sideshow Bob tries to frame Krusty for murder. In Season 6's "Homie the Clown," Homer Simpson goes to "Clown College" to impersonate Krusty, which ends with both of them in front of Fat Tony and the Springfield mafia. In Season 34, Krusty makes a second attempt to open a clown college in Springfield, bringing a familiar plot to longtime viewers. In these Simpsons episodes, many fans have noticed that Krusty and Homer share similarities in both appearance and lifestyle, making Krusty the Clown stand out even more as a notable character in the series.

16 Chief Wiggum Is the Master of Doing the Bare Minimum

Springfield's Lovable Police Chief Has All the Snacks

Chief Clancy Wiggum has won over audiences as the lovable yet clumsy police chief in Springfield. He might not be the most competent at his job, but Wiggum still manages to catch the criminal most of the time. Chief Wiggum also brings many laughs and some sweet moments, including plenty of doughnuts, to Simpsons viewers.

Chief Wiggum is a fan-favorite Simpsons character because he is a devoted father to Ralph and a good friend to Homer, adding kindness to the dynamics of the show. In "Mother Simpson," Wiggum even helps Homer's mother Mona Simpson escape the FBI as a thank-you for curing his asthma, an act that proves his good nature and redeeming qualities. Fans can certainly get behind Chief Wiggum as a generally good person who can do the most for Springfield while also giving the least amount of effort.

15 Edna Krabappel's Relatability Resonates With Fans

Springfield Elementary's Teacher Brings the Laughter

Bart's teacher at Springfield Elementary, Edna Krabappel, is one of the most recognizable characters on The Simpsons thanks to her unique laugh. Fans enjoy the depth of Edna's love-hate relationship with Bart, which sees them both arguing and sharing a bond on other occasions. In "Grade School Confidential," Bart becomes the unwilling gofer between Edna and Principal Seymour Skinner, delivering secret messages back and forth to them as they try to keep their romance hidden. More often, though, viewers resonate with Edna's relatable jadedness and burnout from her demanding job as a teacher.

The Simpsons retired the recurring character of Edna Krabappel in Season 25 after the voice actress Marcia Wallace sadly passed away in 2013. The Simpsons honored the late voice actress in the opening for the episode "Four Regrettings and a Funeral", where the chalkboard read "We'll really miss you Mrs. K." Though her character is now retired, Edna Krabappel earns the number 15 spot on this list because she remains beloved and memorable to many fans as one of the top 5 female Simpsons characters on the show.

14 Waylon Smithers Goes Above and Beyond for His Boss

This Simpsons Sidekick Is Mr. Burns' Number One Fan

One of the most iconic Simpsons characters is Waylon Smithers, Mr. Burns' loyal personal assistant. The unique relationship between Burns and Smithers is one of the most popular running gags in The Simpsons. Mr. Smithers' devotion and unrequited love towards Mr. Burns is the center of many memorable jokes and scenes from the show, giving fans a funny Simpsons duo to follow across the series.

During most of the Simpsons series, Mr. Smithers' sexuality remained ambiguous. When Homer takes Smithers' place as Mr. Burns' assistant, Smithers' devotion and unspoken love for his boss is central to the story. Waylon Smithers finally came out as gay during Season 27, Episode 17, "The Burns Cage." Fans love Smithers because of his immense desire to please his boss and the comedic aspect that ensues from their dysfunctional relationship.

13 Nelson Muntz Shows That Even Bullies Have Feelings, Too

An Iconic Simpsons Character Is Springfield’s School Bully

As Springfield Elementary's biggest bully, Nelson Muntz constantly harasses children in The Simpsons, especially Bart's best friend Milhouse. Prone to violence, Nelson is often seen beating up his victims, though Bart does stand up to him and earns his respect. Nelson's famous catchphrase, "Ha Ha!," makes him one of the most popular Simpsons characters among fans, bringing both comedic and dramatic elements to a major antagonist.

Although Nelson initially had conflicts with Bart Simpson in the first season, eventually they become friends. Nelson and Lisa even have a brief romance in Season 8's "Lisa's Date With Destiny" that sparked a chain of related episodes following their developing relationship. Although Nelson ultimately does not find his happy ending with Lisa, the emotional complexity of Nelson's character in The Simpsons proves to fans that there's much more to Springfield's top bully than meets the eye.

12 Seymour Skinner Puts the Pal in Principal

The Principal Who Deals With Bart Simpson's Antics

Starring in the very first Simpsons episode, Seymour Skinner started as the principal of Springfield Elementary School. In later seasons, however, viewers learned more about Principal Skinner's past. Seymour Skinner's military background is a big part of his backstory, particularly in an episode with a controversial twist, "The Principal and the Pauper," which was retconned in later Simpsons episodes due to fan backlash.

Skinner's ongoing rivalry with Bart Simpson makes him one of the most popular Simpsons characters. Without someone to rebel against, Bart wouldn't be the hilarious and mischievous character he is. Fans recognize that Seymour Skinner's presence in The Simpsons is hard to replace, and his relationship with his mother, Agnes Skinner, and teacher Edna Krabappel are both sources of entertainment for viewers. Skinner is the perfect principal to elevate Bart's antics in Springfield Elementary, and fans appreciate how these characters complement each other in hilarious ways.

11 Abraham Simpson Tells the Best Stories

Homer’s Dad Is One of the Funniest Simpsons Characters

Abraham Simpson, or Grampa Simpson, brings a hilarious representation of the older generation to The Simpsons. Usually rambling about the old days, Abe Simpson often creates stories that never happened. This habit backfires when Bart doesn't believe Grampa Simpson about his infantry squad, the Flying Hellfish.

Most of Grampa Simpson's most iconic moments include his incoherent stories and senile moments that fans love to quote. At times, these moments revolve around Grampa Simpson's romances, like pursuing Marge's mother, Jacqueline Bouvier, or marrying Selma, Marge's sister. And while the Simpson family mostly dismisses him, Grampa Simpson is central to many plots in The Simpsons. Abe Simpson adds a lighthearted dynamic to the Simpson family, providing fans with some of the funniest scenes in the show.

10 Apu Nahasapeemapetilon's Influence Extends Beyond the Simpsons

The Popular Store Owner Also Appears in Simpsons Video Games

Owner of Springfield's Kwik-E-Mart convenience store, Apu stands out among Simpsons characters with his unrelenting kindness and welcoming demeanor. Fans won't forget Apu's smile and classic catchphrase, "Thank you, come again!" As a Ph.D. in computer science who opens his store to pay off his student loans, Apu also proves to be one of Springfield's most humble residents, which is why many fans appreciate his character in The Simpsons.

Over time, Apu increasingly became the butt of jokes and the subject of controversy for The Simpsons. Season 27's "Much Apu About Something" acknowledges Apu's stereotypical role in the show, angrily pointed out to Apu by his nephew Jay. Though he has moved out of the spotlight in the show, Apu's impact on Western television makes him one of the most iconic Simpsons characters. Because of his notable influence on pop culture, Apu lands in the top 10 best characters in The Simpsons.

9 Maggie Simpson Should Never Be Underestimated

Actions Speak Louder Than Words in the Simpson Family

The youngest Simpson doesn't have much to say. Yet, Maggie's silence is also iconic in itself. The fact that baby Maggie Simpson has never spoken in The Simpsons is now a running gag in the series. So much so, that when viewers see the Simpson family's future in "Lisa's Wedding," many jokes revolve around interrupting an older Maggie before she speaks.

Maggie has had several memorable moments that make her essential to fans of The Simpsons. Maggie was the owner of Mr. Burn's teddy bear, Bobo, which at first seemed like a sweet connection between these two characters. Then, in a later season, Maggie shoots Mr. Burns, solidifying her high status among Simpsons viewers. These storylines prove that even at her young age, Maggie has many shocking Simpsons moments, always delighting fans with her surprising antics.

8 Moe Szyslak Serves Homer All the Beer

Grab a Duff Beer at Moe's Tavern

Moe Szyslak is the owner of Moe's, the bar where Homer, Lenny, Carl and Barney meet and drink together. And as Moe himself says, he's Homer Simpson's life partner. Some of the most iconic Simpsons moments happened at Moe's Tavern, from Moe stealing Homer's drink "Flaming Homer" to Bart's constant hilarious prank calls. Fans can always rely on Simpsons characters having a good time when Moe is around.

Moe Szyslak also has a close bond with Maggie after saving her life in Season 14, Episode 22, "Moe Baby Blues." Moe's not-so-secret crush on Marge Simpson is also a running gag in The Simpsons. This gives Moe another connection to the Simpson family and makes him a vital Simpsons character. Having relationships with each of the Simpson family members, Moe is a fan-favorite on The Simpsons and a character viewers can't help but root for.

7 Ned Flanders Is More Important to Homer Than He Realizes

Homer Secretly Loves Springfield's Friendliest Neighbor

Ned Flanders plays a big role in The Simpsons. Ned is Homer's frenemy and neighbor, and they share several important storylines in the series. In one Simpsons episode, Homer causes Ned's wife's accidental death. In another episode, Homer and Ned drunkenly marry two waitresses in Las Vegas. This unlikely Springfield duo has a chemistry that fans enjoy watching, even if sometimes Homer and Ned are at odds with each other.

The religious and caring side of Ned also takes center stage in The Simpsons. Homer tends to take advantage of Ned Flander's good nature and patience. Yet even if Homer Simpson says he dislikes his neighbor, he still misses Ned when he moves away, as Springfield isn't the same without him. Fans certainly agree that Ned Flanders is essential when it comes to the best Simpsons characters with unique personalities.

6 Sideshow Bob and Bart Have a Longstanding Rivalry

Bart Simpson's Mortal Enemy Brings Out Evil Plots

Voiced by Frasier's Kelsey Grammer, Sideshow Bob is one of The Simpsons' biggest villains. After Bart Simpson derails Sideshow Bob's plan to frame Krusty for armed robbery, Bob becomes Bart's number one enemy. Sideshow Bob is an absolute fan-favorite due to his recurring encounters with Springfield's biggest prankster in many Simpsons episodes.

Some of Sideshow Bob's most memorable appearances include attempts to kill Bart Simpson, which gives viewers lots of hilarious stand-out moments in the show. Whenever he's on-screen, Bob brings a new layer of excitement and peril to The Simpsons with his evil deeds. Sideshow Bob's arrogance, refined personality and love of musicals make him an unforgettable character in the series. Sideshow Bob also provides Simpsons fans with a range of settings where he goes head-to-head with Bart, making his appearances more memorable than other supporting characters in the show.