Major Simpsons plot-twist that never aired explains why Homer and Krusty look so similar

While The Simpsons have many twists over its 30-year stint, one incredible storyline never made it to our screens.

The axed story would have explained the uncanny resemblance between patriarch Homer Simpson and Krusty the Clown.

Sadly, showrunner Matt Groening decided to shelve the plot – despite the character being voiced by the same actor, Dan Castellaneta.

Fans of the long-running animation had often theorised about why Homer and Springfield’s biggest celebrity looked so similar.

In fact, one fan of The Simpsons even made a TikTok video discussing a possible reason could be the badly behaved, Bart. (yes, really.)

During the short video, user @Lwham explained their theory: “Ever noticed just how similar Homer and Krusty the Clown are? It’s even more evident when Krusty’s shown without make-up on or in the episode Homer the Clown, where they look more or less identical.

“This is not sheer coincidence. In fact, this is a defining part of Krusty’s character and a key element for the relationship between Krusty, Homer and Bart, because while Bart showed no respect for his father and is just a brat, he idolises Krusty the Clown.”

However, the super fan was also aware of the unaired secret twist – revealing that showrunners had intended for Homer to actually be Krusty.

They revealed: “In fact, before the show began, they planned for Homer to actually be Krusty the Clown as a sort of secret identity.”

Everett Collection Inc / Alamy Stock Photo

Whilst most fans were unaware of this, creator Matt Groening has acknowledged the axed sub-plot, which was set to be unveiled during an early series.

The writer had originally planned to have Bart attend a taping of the Krusty the Clown Show, only to suspect that the beloved clown was being portrayed by an imposter.

Eager to unmask the truth, the young boy yanks off Krusty’s iconic red nose to reveal his father.

Groening spoke about the twist to Entertainment Weekly, telling the publication: ”The original idea behind Krusty the Clown was that he was Homer in disguise, but Homer still couldn’t get any respect from his son, who worshiped Krusty. If you look at Krusty, it’s just Homer with extended hair and a tuft on his head.”

However, the showrunner felt it was too complicated and the plot never aired, with Marge and Homer simply watch the incident on TV instead.

First appearing as part of a short which aired on The Tracy Ullman Show, Krusty would go on to become the iconic character fans love today.