If you fancy yourself an expert binge-watcher, consider this the challenge of a lifetime. This week, FXX is kicking off their new "Simpsons" syndication deal with a mega-marathon of all 552 episodes, in order, over the course of 12 straight days. To prepare for this week's marathon launch, longtime "Simpsons" showrunner Al Jean breaks down his five favorite "Simpsons" episodes from the show's first 25 seasons.

#1: 'Simpsons Roasting on an Open Fire '

(Series Premiere, originally aired December 17, 1989. Marathon date/time: August 21, 10:00 a.m. EST)

"That started everything and it's such a wonderful memory," Jean says. "It's very sweet; much of what is true of the series. A little fun fact: they get the dog in the episode – it was the first one aired, but the eighth one filmed. So for the next seven episodes, you didn't see the dog. It was not going to be the premiere. The premiere was going to be in September, but it got moved because everybody believed in that episode so much."

#2: 'Homer at the Bat '