However, the relationship takes a dark turn when Michael opens a "fast fashion" manufacturing plant in Springfield. Homer, Bart, and Lisa soon discover that the factory is an environmental disaster—toxic waste from the plant even manages to kill the three-eyed fish, Blinky—and operates under sweatshop conditions. Mr. Burns, rather than being appalled, advises Smithers to stay with Michael, noting that the fashion industry is even more ruthless than nuclear power.
The relationship ultimately ends not because of the environmental destruction, but because of Michael’s cruelty toward a puppy. After Michael mistreats his Dobermann, Smithers realizes Michael lacks the compassion he needs in a partner and breaks up with him. Smithers happily adopts the rejected puppy, finding the unconditional love he was seeking. Writers : Rob LaZebnik and his son, Johnny LaZebnik. Director : Steven Dean Moore. Guest Stars : Victor Garber as Michael de Graaf. Christine Baranski as herself. Christian Siriano as himself. [S33E8] Portrait of a Lackey on Fire
Homer notices Waylon Smithers’ loneliness and decides to play matchmaker. He introduces Smithers to , a world-famous fashion designer who visits Mr. Burns' estate to adopt a puppy from a litter of Burns' attack hounds. Smithers and Michael fall deeply in love, with Michael appearing polite, attentive, and charming. However, the relationship takes a dark turn when
: A unique segment featuring the Simpson family created from potato stamps. Burns, rather than being appalled, advises Smithers to
: The title is a play on the 2019 French film Portrait of a Lady on Fire . Subplot
While Smithers is distracted by his romance, becomes obsessed with a simple 50-piece jigsaw puzzle. He over-analyzes the "complexity" of the task, which prevents him from noticing Smithers’ absence for much of the episode.