Waylon Smithers To Come Out As Gay To Longtime Crush Mr. Burns On ‘The Simpsons’

The Simpson‘s character Waylon Smithers will finally come out as gay to his cantankerous boss Mr. Montgomery Burns on the upcoming season of the series.

Wylan Smithers Is Coming Out As Gay To Burns

Throughout the Simpsons‘ run, Smithers sexuality has been something of an open secret. And at this point, the whole town – except for his boss and longtime crush Mr. Burns – knows that he’s gay. In the show’s 27th season, he’s going to formally come out of the closet, according to Simpsons executive producer Al Jean. 

“In Springfield now, most people know he’s gay, but obviously Burns doesn’t,” Jean told TVLine. “We deal with that in two episodes.”

Smithers’ story arc for the 27th season will go beyond just his sexuality, though, according to Jean. The season will also deal with his growing resentment for serving as Burns’ manservant.

“We actually do a lot with Smithers this year,” said Jean. “He gets fed up with Burns not appreciating him and considers his options.”

Harry Shearer, who announced he was leaving the The Simpsons earlier this year before walking back the decision, voices both Smithers and Mr. Burns in addition to a number of other characters who’ve passed through Springfield.

The Simpson‘s 27 season will premiere on Fox on Sunday, Sept. 27.