The season received a B from The A.V. Club and is often described as a "return to form" compared to immediately preceding years.
Frequently cited as a low point due to its mean-spirited humor regarding Homer and Bart's relationship. Viewer Reception
Audience reviews on Rotten Tomatoes range from "best show ever" to "unwatchable," reflecting a divide between longtime loyalists and those frustrated by the show's evolution. The Simpsons - Season 22
A fan favorite for its multi-layered mystery plot. Worst Episodes:
Critics praised the season for taking more creative risks, such as the Oscar-nominated episode " Angry Dad: The Movie " and more nuanced character-driven stories. The season received a B from The A
The season averaged 7.28 million viewers , ranking 68th among all broadcast shows that year.
Some reviewers noted a heavy reliance on guest stars (like the Flight of the Conchords and Jon Hamm), which sometimes overshadowed the core family dynamics. Standout Episodes Best Episodes: Viewer Reception Audience reviews on Rotten Tomatoes range
Season 22 of The Simpsons is generally viewed as a "mixed bag" that oscillates between experimental highs and formulaic lows. While it doesn't reach the "Golden Era" heights of earlier seasons, many critics consider it a notable improvement over the slump seen in the late teens .