David Cooper
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0036 - Selma Bouvier
🕑 Added 2021-11-08 09:00:03 +0000 UTCFor years, I thought of Selma and her twin sister (I'll reveal her name on Thursday) as one unit. I think this is by design, they operate as a joined obstacle for Homer, the typical in-laws to get in the way of out hero's happiness. Rumour has it that they were at least partially based on Sam Simon's in-laws, which does not paint them in a flattering light.
But over time, out of necessity, the sisters develop characteristics and separate into two unique people. It's strange that Selma's primary role is "the one that gets married a bunch", but I suppose it makes sense to give the typical sitcom plot of "people get married" to a less important side character. She has been married at least five times, and some of these don't even appear on screen, as far as I know. It's a fun runner.
Despite the many marriages, Selma's one lasting change is her adoption of Ling. It's going to be a long time before we get to Ling here, but I do find it interesting when the show does commit to a lasting significant change like this. This was obviously seen as important enough to change Selma's status quo, permanently, which I like.
The sisters' relationship is actually very sweet. Their closeness, even as adults, is admirable, and it's something that changed my perception of them as I grew up. Before, Selma and <name redacted> were an obstacle. Now I think they're great.
This post is part of my "Every Simpsons Character Ever" series. For a list of my rules in this project, click here.
