A ‘Simpsons’ Writer Posted the Original Draft of the Iconic ‘Steamed Hams’ Scene on Twitter

“It’s an Albany expression.”

Thomas Freeman

Jan 5, 2018

Arguably the funniest scene from The Simpsons (and perhaps ever written) is the “Steamed Hams” gag from Principal Skinner.

You remember it: In 1996’s incredible “22 Short Films About Springfield” episode, Skinner has Superintendent Chalmers over for an “unforgettable luncheon” that ends with him burning his roast, serving fast food hamburgers he calls “steamed hams” and insisting the fire in his kitchen is the Aurora Borealis, among other absurdities.

It’s not necessarily what’s happening, but the lengths Skinner goes to cover it all up in his usual stone-faced demeanor.

Now you can read the scene as it was intended to be told. Writer Bill Oakley, who takes credit for the iconic scene, has shared the original draft on Twitter.

https://twitter.com/thatbilloakley/status/949044048370614273 https://twitter.com/thatbilloakley/status/949044103307714560 https://twitter.com/thatbilloakley/status/949044180524851200 https://twitter.com/thatbilloakley/status/949044256341049344 https://twitter.com/thatbilloakley/status/949044359336349696 https://twitter.com/thatbilloakley/status/949044443482546176

It’s just as brilliant now as it was over 20 years ago.

h/t NME