The Simpsons Reaches Historic 800th Episode with R.E.M. Parody Cameo
The iconic animated sitcom The Simpsons has achieved a monumental television milestone, airing its 800th episode to conclude its 37th season. This historic installment featured a special cameo from Michael Stipe, the former frontman of the legendary rock band R.E.M., who performed a hilarious parody of their 1992 hit song Everybody Hurts.
A Nostalgic and Humorous Tribute
In the episode titled Homer? A Cracker Bro?, the storyline follows Homer Simpson and his friend Kirk Van Houten as they launch a wildly successful business venture—a crumbless cracker that becomes a nationwide sensation. However, the plot takes an emotional turn when Kirk experiences a manic episode, leading to depression. During a poignant montage showing Kirk in a depressed state, snacking on a rotisserie chicken, an animated version of Stipe serenades him with spoofed lyrics.
The parody, which includes lines like When your day is long, and at night, at night you snack alone and Everybody Kirks, crumb-times, adds a layer of humor and nostalgia to the episode. This clever twist on the original song resonated deeply with fans, blending classic rock with the show's signature wit.
Fan Reactions and Social Media Buzz
Viewers expressed overwhelming joy on social media platforms following the episode's broadcast. One fan commented on Instagram, Loved it! Between that and the Philly-centric episode before it, it was the most fun I've had watching TV on a Sunday night in forever. Another enthusiast exclaimed, Rem in The Simpsons in 2026? Hell yeah, while a third shared a personal story, noting how the cameo made their birthday celebration extra special.
This appearance marks Stipe's second involvement with The Simpsons, having first appeared in a 2001 Thanksgiving episode. Reflecting on his return, Stipe stated, I was super flattered to be invited back into The Simpsons universe, and particularly with this grand message of great hope.
The Enduring Legacy of The Simpsons
As the longest-running scripted primetime series in television history, The Simpsons continues to innovate and entertain audiences since its debut in 1989. Showrunner Matt Selman has affirmed that the series will never have a finale, with Fox recently renewing it for an additional four seasons. This commitment ensures that the show will remain a staple of pop culture for years to come.
Season 37, including the landmark 800th episode, is currently available for streaming on platforms like Hulu and Disney+, allowing fans to relive this historic moment. The combination of celebrity cameos, humorous storytelling, and cultural references solidifies The Simpsons as a timeless entertainment phenomenon.
