
Moe Szyslak
Appears In
The Simpsons
Species
Human
First Appearance
December 17, 1989
Occupation
Bartender, former unlicensed surgeon, former TV actor, former wildlife smuggler
Creator
Matt Groening
Overview
Origin Story
Moe Szyslak's origins are shrouded in contradiction, a running joke on the show. He has claimed to be a snake-handler, of Irish descent, and half monster, half Armenian. He says he was born a snake handler and also claims to have been born in Indiana. Actor Hank Azaria envisions Moe as being from Queens, New York City, and portrays him with a Queens accent. His family includes his father Morty, sister Minnie, brother Marv, and a possible son named Little Moe introduced in season 17. He also had a fiancée named Maya. Moe earned his bartending degree from Swigmore University.
Personality
Moe is perpetually miserable, gruff, and lonely, often lashing out in violent desperation. He is deeply insecure and desperate for love and respect, which leads him into darkly comedic situations. Despite his cantankerous exterior, he occasionally reveals a soft, caring side, such as when he babysits Bart's friend or reads to sick children at the hospital. He is also known for his catchphrase, "Ah, geez!"
Story Arc
Over the series, Moe's character has remained largely static in terms of his core misery, but he has experienced occasional flashes of hope and change. He briefly transformed his tavern into a family-friendly restaurant called "Uncle Moe's Family Feedbag," which failed. He has had several romantic interests, including a relationship with Maya, but none have lasted. His friendship with Homer has deepened over the years, and he has shown paternal instincts. Despite his many side hustles and schemes, Moe always returns to his role as Springfield's most miserable bartender.
Powers & Abilities
Bartending
Unlicensed surgery
Macedonian language
Snake handling
Equipment & Signature Items
Shotgun
Bar rag
Beer tap
Relationships

Homer Simpson
FriendHomer is Moe's most loyal customer and friend, though Moe often finds Homer's antics exasperating.
Bart Simpson
OtherBart is a frequent prank caller to Moe's Tavern, asking for customers with ridiculous names, which infuriates Moe.

Barney Gumble
FriendBarney is a regular at Moe's Tavern and one of Moe's few consistent customers.
Lenny Leonard
FriendLenny is a regular patron of Moe's Tavern and a drinking buddy.
Carl Carlson
FriendCarl is another regular at Moe's Tavern.
Maya
Love InterestMaya was Moe's fiancée, but their relationship ended.
Morty Szyslak
FamilyMoe's father, who appears in flashbacks.
Memorable Quotes
“Ah, geez!”
“I'm a bartender, not a miracle worker.”
“Why do I even bother?”
“I'm Moe Szyslak. I own this bar, and I'm miserable.”
“I'm half monster, half Armenian.”
Portrayed By
Key Appearances
The Simpsons (1989–present)
The Simpsons Movie (2007)
The Simpsons: Hit & Run (2003)
The Simpsons Game (2007)
Reception & Legacy
Moe Szyslak has become a fan favorite, known for his dark humor and memorable prank calls. Fan surveys rate him as highly deranged, often crying, and salacious. His perpetual misery and shady side hustles have made him a subject of extensive fan analysis. He is consistently ranked among the top supporting characters in The Simpsons.
Interesting Facts and Legends
Moe's first name, Moammar, is a reference to Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi.
The character was originally voiced by Christopher Collins in an unaired pilot, but Hank Azaria took over for the series.
Moe's Tavern has been transformed into a pet shop and a family restaurant at different points in the series.
Moe is the second most prominent supporting character in The Simpsons by dialogue volume, after Mr. Burns.
The prank call gag was inspired by real-life prank calls and became one of the show's longest-running jokes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Moe Szyslak?
Does Moe Szyslak die?
Who plays Moe Szyslak?
Is Moe Szyslak a villain?
Who does Moe Szyslak end up with?
Keywords
Sources
Character Info
- Universe
- The Simpsons universe
- Creator
- Matt Groening
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