Homer Becomes Santa Claus in The Simpsons' First Episode

Ho, ho, d'oh! Homer Simpson has done many jobs during The Simpsons' 30-plus year run, but few remember that his first gig was working as a mall Santa Claus. In the debut episode of the now-iconic comedy ("Simpsons Roasting on an Open Fire," also known as "The Simpsons Christmas Special"), Homer learns that he won't be receiving a holiday bonus and transforms into Santa to make some extra cash. After some unfortunate deductions, Homer leaves with just $13 in his pocket, prompting he and Bart to set out on their first father-son adventure.

The 1989 episode also introduces fans to Santa's Little Helper, a greyhound who later reappeared in "Old Yeller-Belly" (Season 14, Episode 19) and "The Way of the Dog" (Season 31, Episode 22).

Claire Spellberg Lustig is the Senior Editor at Primetimer and a scholar of The View. Follow her on Twitter at @c_spellberg.