Barney Gumble is one of Homer Simpson's best friends. 1 / 8
He's also quietly one of the most tragic characters in the entire franchise. 2 / 8
Homer accidently put him on the path towards alcoholism in high school. 3 / 8
He's lived a rough and largely job-less life. 4 / 8
This is despite his confirmed artistic and mental potential. 5 / 8
The character even tried to go sober in Season 12. 6 / 8
His attempts quickly led to relapses. 7 / 8
All of this might be why he's been less prevalent in later seasons. 8 / 8