Ep 5. Sideshow Bob Roberts
- TV-PG
- October 9, 1994
- 22 min
-
8.2 (3,105)
In The Simpsons season 6 episode 5 titled "Sideshow Bob Roberts," the iconic animated family is presented with one of their greatest foes yet: Sideshow Bob, who is running for mayor of Springfield. Bob, who had previously been arrested for attempting to frame Krusty the Clown for armed robbery and then orchestrating a plot to kill Bart Simpson, has apparently reformed and is now running to be the city's mayor.
The episode opens with a political ad for Sideshow Bob, in which he promises to bring law and order to Springfield. The family is initially intrigued by Bob's promises, but when they attend his rally, they realize that he is just another corrupt politician who will do anything to win the election. Bob's campaign is funded by Mr. Burns and his corrupt power plant, and he uses propaganda to sway public opinion in his favor.
As the election approaches, Lisa becomes suspicious of Bob and decides to investigate his past. She discovers that he was actually born as Robert Underdunk Terwilliger Jr. and has a history of criminal activity. She also finds evidence that Bob is planning to rig the election.
Lisa warns the family, but they refuse to believe her. Bart even becomes enamored with Bob and begins to campaign for him. Lisa, however, refuses to back down and continues to investigate. She eventually uncovers a voice recording of Bob confessing to his plan to rig the election and presents it at a town hall meeting.
The town is initially skeptical of Lisa's claims, but when Bob's co-conspirator is revealed to be Mr. Burns, the people of Springfield turn on Bob. He is eventually arrested and sent back to prison.
The episode is a hilarious and satirical commentary on American politics and the corrupt nature of politicians. It also features some brilliant social commentary on issues like propaganda, media bias, and gerrymandering.
Overall, "Sideshow Bob Roberts" is a standout episode in The Simpsons' long history. It is a must-watch for fans of the show and anyone interested in politics and satire.
