Over the past 26 years of "The Simpsons," Waylon Smithers' sexuality has grown from a recurring joke to an open secret in Springfield, but in all that time his employer, best friend and longtime obsession has remained oblivious. However, that may change this season.

"The Simpsons" showrunner Al Jean suggests this just may be the year that Smithers comes out to Mr. Burns.

“In Springfield now, most people know he’s gay, but obviously Burns doesn’t,” Jean tells TVLine. “We deal with that in two episodes. … We actually do a lot with Smithers this year; he gets fed up with Burns not appreciating him and considers his options.”

Smithers has expressed his love for the wraith-like billionaire on numerous occasions over the years, going so far as to kiss him when he thought the world was about to end.

This wouldn't be the first time a major character has come out on "The Simpsons": After much teasing by the producers, Marge's sister Patty Bouvier was revealed to be a lesbian in a 2005 episode. Of course at the time, most everyone presumed it would be Smithers making the announcement.