The Simpsons in their prime were absolutely the better series.
The writing is far more clever, the characters were more three-dimensional, the show's philosophy was deeper, the Halloween specials are better, and the satire of 1990s America was absolutely spot-on.
One of the things that really pushes the Simpsons to the next level are the side characters. Every kid remembers having a Ralph Wiggum at their school. We all knew a principals and teachers like Seymour Skinner and Ms. Krabappel growing up. We all know guys like Barney Gumble, Ned Flanders, and Mr. Burns in real life. The characters and their world were relatable. As goofy and as silly as the characters could be (Krusty the Clown
), you still saw the good in everyone. Bart may have been a troublemaker, but he still genuinely loved his family and was willing to set things right when he went too far with his pranks. Homer is capable of incredible selflessness and sacrifice for the sake of people counting on him ("Do it for her"
)
“Bart Gets an F” by itself is better than that whole Seth McFarlane catalogue. Yeah, I said it.
Plus, the Simpsons had an episode guest-starring MJ the GOAT
I'm still disappointed with them for pulling this episode though