Growing up watching The Simpsons, many fans have always wondered how Homer Simpson managed to secure a job at the nuclear power plant despite his apparent lack of qualifications. Showrunner Al Jean himself found this to be a mystery worth exploring. Typically, jobs at nuclear power plants require specialized knowledge and training, qualities that Homer seems to lack.
After 35 years, the mystery has finally been decoded. It turns out that Grandpa Abe and Mr. Burns made a secret deal to ensure that Homer would keep his job at the plant, regardless of his performance. In a surprising twist, it was revealed in season 36, episode four that Grandpa Abe was a private investigator in the ‘80s. During his investigation of Mr. Burns, Abe’s partner disappeared under suspicious circumstances. To ensure his partner’s safety and secure Homer’s job, Abe struck a deal with Mr. Burns to drop the investigation.
The details surrounding Mr. Burns’ investigation remain unclear, but it seems to have involved criminal activities given the mysterious disappearance of Abe’s partner. Despite Homer’s usual bumbling nature, he has shown moments of competence at the power plant. In one episode, he was promoted to safety inspector after championing safety concerns in Springfield. In another, he inadvertently saved the city from a nuclear meltdown.
Fans of classic animated series have been treated to more surprises recently, with a glimpse of an adult Bobby Hill in the King of the Hill revival. It seems that even after all these years, these iconic shows continue to provide entertainment and intrigue for their dedicated followers.
