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When you think of iconic shows like The Simpsons, it's difficult to imagine the show or its characters being any way other than how they are.
From their catchphrases, to their personalities, or character designs, the cast of the show, down to its theme song, all seem like a perfect fit.
But with many creative endeavors, a huge reason why they became such a success is because tons of work and brainstorming sessions went into making them so.
And if you look at the development notes for a series in the writers and animators, you'll see that those "perfect" ideas were workshopped to death, and that there were tons of concepts left on the cutting room floor.
Something that Simpsons animator David Silverman shared on Twitter some notes he took during a writer's retreat for the team behind the series.
Homer has a good laugh. We all could use a good laugh. (same sketchbook 12/95) pic.twitter.com/0ICJ7XomKr
Some of his notes were packed with ideas and concepts that ultimately never made it on air.
Like Smithers opening his own company.
Another sketch from Winter ‘95 writers retreat (@thatbilloakley & @Joshstrangehill show runners). Ken Keebler suggested what became the Simpsons Spin-off Showcase (5/11/97). Note that “Smithers & Co.” became “The Love-magic Grampa.” pic.twitter.com/9zQfS0qq9V
In fact, it started a wish-train of more Smithers related spin-offs and storylines. I mean Smithers and Milhouse dorking it up together would've been incredible.
Man I would have loved to see Smithers as a mentor for Milhouse
His notes also revealed just how long certain ideas can take to finally come to fruition. For example, this piece that formed an idea for an episode that went on TV 3 years later.
Another sketch from that Dec. ‘95 writers retreat. This became LISA THE SIMPSON aired much later 3/8/98. Goes to show how some ideas sit on the shelf. pic.twitter.com/dMLTXwPZGC
It's also interesting to see how small ideas or thoughts get incorporated into episodes down the line, something that this guy picked up on after seeing some sketches of Homer's laugh.
Almost looks like his reaction to Milhouse looking like the poindexter from the dating game in Summer of 4ft 2
