& Scratchy & Poochie Show | [s8e14] The Itchy

: As a direct meta-joke, a character named Roy —a random teenager with no explanation—temporarily moves into the Simpsons' house. He was created to mock a real network executive's suggestion that the writers should add a new character to "liven up" the show.

This episode was specifically timed to celebrate The Simpsons surpassing The Flintstones as the longest-running American animated series.

"The Itchy & Scratchy & Poochie Show" (Season 8, Episode 14) is one of the most significant episodes in The Simpsons history, serving as a biting, self-referential critique of the television industry and its own longevity.

: This episode features the first time Comic Book Guy utters his iconic catchphrase, " Worst episode ever ," satirizing the hyper-critical nature of online fans. The Itchy & Scratchy & Poochie Show - IMDb