The Inside Story Behind ‘The Simpsons’ First Special for Disney Plus

The Simpsons have been inextricably linked to Christmas since the first episode aired back in 1989. Over the years, the show has delivered more than a dozen Christmas-themed episodes, with this tradition continuing in 2024 with the new special “O C’mon All Ye Faithful,” set to premiere on Disney+.

In this special, English mentalist Derren Brown shakes things up in Springfield with a social experiment to restore holiday cheer. Unexpectedly, Homer thinks he’s Santa, and Ned Flanders faces a crisis of faith. The story takes a heartwarming turn thanks to Professor Frink’s unexpected under-the-sea adventure, ultimately restoring Flanders’ faith.

During an interview with episode writer Carolyn Omine and showrunner Matt Selman, they shared insights into the inspiration behind the episode. Omine revealed that personal experiences and Derren Brown’s work influenced the story, particularly in exploring questions of identity, faith, and magic.

The decision to create exclusive episodes for Disney+ came about due to Fox’s preference for Halloween-themed content, and a desire to create a special Christmas episode for the streaming platform. Omine’s reflection on the meaning of humanity and Frink’s exploration of nature’s wonders were key elements in crafting this heartfelt episode, adding depth and humor to the show’s rich tradition.