The Simpsons fans have been left gobsmacked after being alerted to the fact a classic Homer meme is now 30 years old.
The animated sitcom first hit screens in 1989, with 762 episodes of the show broadcast since then.
Although the series has generated plenty of attention for its eerie predictions over the years, some of its iconic scenes have also been transformed into hugely popular memes in recent times.
One of the most recognizable that has taken off on social media has been Homer backing into a bush looking somewhat embarrassed.
In a 1994 episode titled Home Loves Flanders, Homer decided to surprise his neighbor and attempt to hang out together.
With Ned Flanders and his sons playing basketball in their driveway, Homer asked what they’re up to for the day before Ned awkwardly said they had ‘family only plans’.
After realizing he wasn’t welcome Homer declared ‘ohhh ok’ before backing back into the hedge separating their properties.
The scene taken off as a meme in recent years, however people were taken aback after discovering just how old it is.
‘It’s unbelievable that one of the most iconic memes from The Simpsons is actually 30 years old. This show was certainly ahead of its time,’ user Srivats posted on X.
‘I refuse to believe this was three decades ago,’ John shared.
‘Excuse me? How many years ago??? Wow I feel absolutely old and decrepit,’ Tom explained.
Meanwhile Chris added: ‘Very proud to have lived through this defining moment in pop culture history.’
As one user also said: ‘30 years ago the Simpsons predicted adult millennials.’
The sixteenth episode of the fifth season, Homer Loves Flanders began with Ned inviting Homer to a football game and the two soon became good friends.
However, in a reversal of their usual roles, Ned soon grew weary of Homer’s overbearing friendship and stupid antics, and began to hate him.
The meme first appeared online back in 2010 but took off two years later when users were able to add their own backgrounds into the bush.
However, in an interview with Vulture, former The Simpsons showrunner David Mirkin said he was surprised at the new meaning of the meme as the scene was originally intended to be quite creepy.
‘What’s really interesting is the meme really has nothing to do with the way it was used in the show, because it’s not a retreat or an embarrassment, as it’s used — it was really just an ominous, threatening look and a very weird backing up while never breaking eye contact with Flanders,’ he said.
'So, it's really good the way it's been altered, but it's not what was originally meant.'
He pointed out that although people had interpreted Homer's expression as a sign of embarrassment, it was actually 'a disturbing stalker vibe instead of a shy, withdrawing vibe'.
The Simpsons can be streamed on Disney Plus in the UK.
