AceShowbiz - After a period where its original breakout star seemed to fade into the background, The Simpsons season 37 has commendably corrected a concerning three-year trend. As the longest-running scripted primetime American TV show in history, with nearly 800 episodes, a feature film, and even a Fortnite collaboration, The Simpsons holds an unparalleled place in television. While its critical peak might have been between seasons 3 and 11, the show has enjoyed an unexpected resurgence in acclaim since 2022's Season 33. Reviews for seasons 33-37 largely praise The Simpsons' revitalized focus on character comedy, a significant improvement after a critical nadir around Season 32. However, even with this renewed success, the series wasn't immune to missteps, particularly concerning the diminished role of one pivotal family member.

For several recent seasons, Bart Simpson, originally the show's mischievous hero, found himself largely sidelined. In the early days of The Simpsons, episodes frequently centered on Bart's escapades, as seen in classics like "Bart the Genius," "Bart the General," and "Krusty Gets Busted." However, as the series progressed, his father, Homer Simpson, gradually emerged as the undeniable lead. Homer's everyman appeal—his oafish yet well-meaning nature—resonated with a broad audience, particularly parents. While Bart remained an integral part of the family alongside Lisa and Marge, he no longer held his initial status as the show's de facto protagonist. During The Simpsons' celebrated Golden Age, episodes focusing on Bart were balanced with memorable adventures for Lisa and Marge, ensuring a diverse character focus.

This balance, however, began to unravel in seasons 34, 35, and 36, where Bart's screen time noticeably decreased, often in favor of minor characters. This shift became particularly evident when Season 35, for instance, dedicated an entire episode to the love life of Groundskeeper Willie, while Bart's own narratives became less frequent and less central. This imbalance raised concerns among long-time fans who missed the dynamic energy Bart brought to the forefront, questioning the show's direction away from one of its core characters.

Thankfully, The Simpsons Season 37 appears to have recognized and rectified this issue, bringing Bart back into the spotlight. This renewed focus on Bart is a welcome return to form, ensuring that all members of the iconic Simpson family receive the attention they deserve. By re-centering its original hero, The Simpsons not only addresses a nagging three-year problem but also reinforces its commitment to the character-driven comedy that has fueled its enduring success and recent critical resurgence.