Who loves Mr. Burns? Who likes Mr. Burns?

In the animated universe of The Simpsons, where eccentric characters abound, none is more intriguing and enigmatic than Charles Montgomery Plantagenet Schicklgruber, affectionately known as Mr. Burns. While the billionaire owner of the Springfield Nuclear Power Plant may not evoke warm and fuzzy feelings from many, there is one character whose sentiments toward Mr. Burns stand out – the loyal and devoted Waylon Smithers. In this article, we explore the complex dynamics of love and affection directed at Mr. Burns, focusing on the unwavering devotion of his longtime assistant, Smithers.

The Enigma of Mr. Burns:

Voiced with impeccable wit and charm by Harry Shearer, Mr. Burns has become a cultural icon. His age, humorously fluctuating between 81 and 120, is a testament to the enduring nature of this character. As the owner of the nuclear power plant, Mr. Burns is characterized by his wealth, greed, and eccentricity, making him a figure both feared and revered in the town of Springfield.

Smithers: A Loyal Right-Hand Man:

Waylon Smithers, Mr. Burns’ long-serving and devoted assistant, is a character whose unwavering loyalty and deep affection for his boss have become a central theme in The Simpsons. In a flashback episode, it was revealed that Mr. Burns once came between Smithers and his then-wife, leading to their separation. From that point forward, Smithers’ life has been entwined with the whims and eccentricities of Mr. Burns.

A “Burns-Sexual” Affection:

The nature of Smithers’ affection for Mr. Burns has been characterized by the show’s writers as “Burns-sexual.” Smithers’ feelings for his boss go beyond professional admiration, evolving into a passionate and deep love. Despite occasional frustrations and unrequited emotions, Smithers remains devoted to Mr. Burns, serving as the loyal right-hand man to the eccentric billionaire.

A 2021 Milestone:

In a significant and progressive development in 2021, The Simpsons writers explored Smithers’ love life in greater detail. The show delved into Smithers’ journey of self-discovery and his acknowledgment of his romantic feelings for Mr. Burns. This storyline, described by the show’s writer as “He deserves his time,” added depth to Smithers’ character and showcased The Simpsons’ commitment to portraying diverse and inclusive narratives.

The complex affection directed at Mr. Burns, particularly through the lens of Smithers’ unwavering loyalty, adds a layer of humanity to the eccentric billionaire. As The Simpsons continues to evolve, so does the portrayal of relationships within the show, including the nuanced dynamic between Mr. Burns and Smithers. In the town of Springfield, where humor reigns supreme, the love and loyalty exhibited by Smithers towards Mr. Burns remain a poignant and enduring aspect of this beloved animated series.