The Simpsons, this Sunday, October 27, is set to address a question that has puzzled fans for more than 35 years. The upcoming episode, Shoddy Heat, promises to unveil a storyline that has lingered since the show’s early days. Executive producer Al Jean teased that the episode would reveal secrets long suspected but never confirmed, fuelling speculation and fan theories across the internet.
Hints from the producers suggest that the episode will feature a younger version of Grampa Simpson alongside a mysterious woman who just might be a youthful Agnes Skinner. Al Jean stated that the storyline may bring closure to some of The Simpsons’ oldest mysteries, noting, “this mystery has tweaked me since The Simpsons took off.”
According to the official episode summary, an unearthed corpse will reopen a murder investigation from Springfield's 1980s era while also delving into Grampa Simpson’s possible romance with Agnes Skinner. The storyline may draw inspiration from the 1981 crime melodrama Body Heat, known for its dark, sultry tone. The Simpsons is expected to add its own comedic spin, balancing dark humor with plenty of ‘80s nostalgia and clever references.
As fans speculate, one key question emerges: could this mystery woman be Mona Simpson, Homer’s mother, or Agnes Skinner, the no-nonsense mother of Principal Seymour Skinner? The idea of a past romance between Grampa and Agnes adds intrigue, given her reputation for a colorful dating life, including multiple marriages to tow-truck drivers. Could Grampa have once played a role in Agnes’s romantic history, leaving Principal Skinner to face a surprising family twist?
Al Jean assured fans that Abe Simpson is not Seymour Skinner’s biological father, meaning Springfield’s family tree remains intact. Yet, Springfield’s intricate backstories will take on fresh layers in Shoddy Heat, offering both nostalgia and satire of 1980s crime dramas.