The Simpsons lived up to its promise tonight.
After vowing all summer long to kill off a key character, the animated smash let go of Krusty's father, Rabbi Hyman Krustofsky, on The Simpsons Season 26 Episode 1.
Voiced by the great Jackie Mason), the holy man had been a part of the show's universe since reuniting with his estranged, red-nosed son in 1991.
Why did producer Al Jean go there?
"I thought it would be a good story about someone who's had a tough relationship with his father - having Krusty's father die without him ever getting that warmth or connection he really wanted, then finally finding it in a surprising way," Jean telld TV Line.
"If we could get a sweet moment out of that, that's all we wanted. We didn't want a crazy death, or anything shocking, just true human emotion."
Not exactly a series known for serialization, Jean also teased that the rabbi's death will continue to be felt as episodes go along.
"One of the reasons Krusty's been such a loose cannon is because his father disapproved of him, and he never felt like he got that sort of love that he wanted," Jean explains. "He might have a little more confidence now that he has that. … A little more.
In case you were somehow concerned, however, have no fear: Jean promises his hit will never kill off Homer or Krusty. PHEW!
Check out this collection of The Simpsons quotes at TV Fanatic and go watch The Simpsons online if you need to catch up. Then, sound off below with your favorite memories of Rabbi Hyman Krustofsky.
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