The Simpsons Season 1

Right now you can watch The Simpsons Season 1 on and — and it is funnier than its reputation suggests. A single, tightly-focused season means there is plenty to get through without ever feeling padded. 10,871 viewers have already rated it on TMDB — the kind of consensus that does not happen by accident. Watch it for Dan Castellaneta — stay for everyone else around them. Start it whenever you need something guaranteed to land.

Whatever else is competing for your attention this week, The Simpsons Season 1 is worth clearing space for. The jokes in The Simpsons Season 1 land because the characters underneath them are worth caring about. Season 1 of The Simpsons includes 13 episodes. It aired from December 1989 to May 1990. This season stars Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner and Nancy Cartwright. Dan Castellaneta and Julie Kavner lead a cast that brings real weight to the material. It was aired in 1989. The real test of any comedy is whether it is still funny once you know all the jokes, and The Simpsons Season 1 holds up on rewatch in a way that separates it from one-off curiosities. The hit rate here is high enough that skipping ahead never feels like an option.

For viewers who want something light without wanting something stupid, The Simpsons Season 1 respects your intelligence. It does not lean on comparisons to make its case. The complete run is available and best experienced without too much prior knowledge of where it goes. Dan Castellaneta is funny in a way that holds up on rewatch. Put it on when you need something guaranteed to land.