The Simpsons began in 1989 and Principal Seymour Skinner became one of its most recognisable school characters, defined by his strained relationship with Bart Simpson and his constant need for order. Short clips of his voice later spread on soundboards and in meme edits alongside moments featuring Homer Simpson. The appeal has lasted because Skinner represents the ultimate unimpressed authority figure, so even a brief line can stand in for disapproval, disbelief or a failed attempt to sound in control online.