The Simpsons' classic "Steamed Hams" episode aired 25 years ago today

The Hollywood Reporter

Former Simpsons writers and executive producer Bill Oakley says the April 14, 1996 “22 Short Films About Springfield" episode was a nod to Thirty Two Short Films About Glenn Gould and was written to explore each beloved side character by having all the writers picking a character out of a hat. "This was right around the time Pulp Fiction came out, so we thought to weave it together with music and intros," says Oakley. As for the "Steamed Hams" segment's endurance, star Hank Azaria says: "I don’t know why this captured people’s imaginations or what it is supposed to represent or what it means beyond face value. But, I get a kick out of it." ALSO: Simpsons writers Bill Oakley and Josh Weinstein answer one question they'd never been asked about "Steamed Hams."