'The Simpsons' To Deal With Mr. Smithers' Sexuality In Two Episodes

Waylon J. Smithers, Jr. might be ready to come out of the closet to his boss Mr. Burns on The Simpsons.

Fox's The Simpsons returned Sunday for its 27^th season.

In discussing the new season, executive producer Al Jean told TVLine that the long-running animated series would deal with Smithers' sexuality in two episodes.

“In Springfield now, most people know he's gay, but obviously Burns doesn't,” Jean said. “We deal with that in two episodes. … We actually do a lot with Smithers this year; he gets fed up with Burns not appreciating him and considers his options.”

The relationship between the two men is a running gag on The Simpsons and many double entendres concerning Smithers' sexuality and devotion to his boss are made on the show.