The next episode of The Simpsons‘ ongoing 34th season brings back a major Season 1 character who very nearly destroyed Marge and Homer’s marriage.
The Simpsons Season 34’s 17th episode, “Pin Gal,” is slated to air on Fox this coming Sunday, March 19. Per the episode’s official synopsis, “A mysterious figure from Marge’s past returns to coach her for a bowling tournament.” On Twitter, The Simpsons co-showrunner Al Jean confirmed that said character is none other than Jacques, with voice actor Albert Brooks reprising the role. This will mark the first time Brooks has voiced Jacques in over 30 years (though he has a number of other characters under his belt, including fan-favorite Hank Scorpio).
Who Is The Simpsons’ Jacques?
Audiences were formally introduced to Jacques, a French bowling instructor, in The Simpsons Season 1, Episode 9, “Life on the Fast Lane,” which originally aired on March 18, 1990. The episode centers on Marge, who is frustrated in her marriage, believing Homer takes her for granted — as evidenced by the fact that his birthday gift to her was a bowling ball he actually got for himself.
Marge decides to learn how to bowl to spite Homer, at which point she begins taking lessons from Jacques. Marge soon becomes enamored with Jacques, who begins to pursue an affair with her. At one point, it seems as though Marge may actually go through with their planned rendezvous. However, she ultimately refrains, reaffirming her commitment to Homer and their family instead.