A Main Simpsons Character Just Missed Their First Episode Ever – Looper

Titled “Carl Carlson Rides Again,” the episode was centered largely around the titular character (these days voiced by Alex Désert), who’s historically been relegated to supporting player status on “The Simpsons.” Fronting Carl, of course, makes the episode noteworthy in and of itself. But as Twitter user ChelseatheCartoonGal notes, the episode is all the more noteworthy due to the complete absence of Yeardley Smith’s Lisa Simpson. 

Given the episode’s focus, it’s easy to understand why the jazz-loving know-it-all didn’t play a major role in the action, though it’s still a bit of a shock when any of the main family doesn’t turn up for even a brief spot in an episode. Nonetheless, this isn’t the first time one was largely absent from the proceedings. Per its IMDb credits, Bart Simpson did not turn up in the season 20 episode, “Four Great Women and a Manicure.” Likewise, Marge Simpson appeared — but did not have a speaking role — in the season 4 episode “Krusty Gets Cancelled,” and baby Maggie Simpson has endured a handful of absences herself.  

Still, Bart did ham it up in the opening credits couch gag for that season 20 episode, and Maggie is a couch gag regular when she’s not around too. Unfortunately, “Carl Carlson Rides Again” skipped said gag altogether, meaning Lisa wasn’t even granted that minor cameo. In her absence, Homer is officially the only Simpson to both appear, and speak in every episode of “The Simpsons.”