The Simpsons has reached a monumental television milestone with its 800th episode, which aired as the conclusion of its 37th season. This historic installment featured a special cameo from R.E.M. co-founder and former frontman Michael Stipe, who performed a parody of the band's iconic 1992 hit "Everybody Hurts." Fans of the long-running animated sitcom have expressed overwhelming joy at this surprise appearance, celebrating the blend of classic music and beloved cartoon humor.
A Historic Milestone for Television
Season 37 of The Simpsons wrapped up with a two-part episode, the second part officially marking the show's 800th episode. Titled "Homer? A Cracker Bro?," this finale follows Homer Simpson and his neighbor Kirk Van Houten as they launch a wildly successful business venture: a "crumbless" cracker that becomes a national sensation. However, the plot takes a dramatic turn when Kirk experiences a manic episode, leading to depression that disrupts his life.
Michael Stipe's Memorable Cameo
In a poignant scene, a montage shows Kirk wandering through his home in a depressed state, snacking on a whole rotisserie chicken. As he moves from room to room, an animated version of Michael Stipe, aged 66, serenades him with a spoof of "Everybody Hurts." The parody lyrics include lines such as, "When your day is long, and at night, at night you snack alone / When you're sure your hunger is gone for this life, well hang on," and "Don't let yourself choke just because your mouth is dry / Everybody Kirks, crumb-times." This creative twist adds emotional depth to the episode while maintaining the show's signature wit.
Fan Reactions and Social Media Buzz
Simpsons enthusiasts have taken to social media to share their excitement about Stipe's cameo. On Instagram, one fan commented, "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 added, "Rem in The Simpsons in 2026? Hell yeah," while a third wrote, "This is just what I needed." A particularly heartwarming response came from a viewer who shared, "Today's my birthday and my daughter heard me laughing, I explained to her my favorite band and TV show teamed up. She asked if they did that for me. I say yes." These reactions highlight the enduring appeal of The Simpsons and its ability to connect with audiences across generations.
Stipe's History with The Simpsons
This is not Michael Stipe's first appearance on the show. He initially appeared in a 2001 Thanksgiving episode, where he and his band were tricked into performing at Homer's garage bar under the guise of a rainforest fundraiser. Reflecting on his return, Stipe told Stereogum, "I was super flattered to be invited back into The Simpsons universe, and particularly with this grand message of great hope." His involvement underscores the show's longstanding tradition of featuring celebrity cameos and musical parodies.
The Simpsons' Enduring Legacy
As the longest-running scripted primetime series in television history, The Simpsons debuted in 1989 and continues to thrive. Showrunner Matt Selman has insisted that the show will "never have a finale," and last April, Fox renewed it for an additional four seasons, ensuring its place in pop culture for years to come. Season 37, including the milestone 800th episode, is available for streaming on Hulu and Disney+, allowing fans to revisit this historic moment.
The combination of a landmark episode, a nostalgic musical parody, and enthusiastic fan response solidifies The Simpsons' status as a cultural touchstone. With its blend of humor, heart, and historical significance, the show proves that even after 800 episodes, it can still surprise and delight viewers around the world.
