It was back in Season 26 when the recurring rabbi first met his maker, and the episode was somewhat controversial. Not because the character died, exactly, but because the promotional build-up made it seem like a much more important character was going to kick the bucket, and fans were quick to judge the show for dashing expectations. (Complain when a great character dies and also complain when a great character doesn't die, this is the only way.) Al Jean also joked that he was "hoping fans are even angrier we bring him back."