At What Point Did The Simpsons Overstay its Welcome?

All good things must come to an end, or so the saying goes. Apparently Fox hasn't heard that idiom, as it has renewed The Simpsons for a 23rd season, which will bring the show's episode total to a whopping 515 episodes once it concludes.
It isn't exactly news to say many people think the show is running on fumes and isn't anywhere near the quality it use to be. But with 22 years under its belt, there's bound to be a wide range of moments when longtime fans of the 'toon threw up their arms, jumped ship, and declared themselves hardcore fans of The Simpsons no longer.
I remember my moment of disappointment very clearly. It happened during Season 12, and The Simpsons was already in its decline, but like someone who just doesn't know when to end a relationship that's run its course, I stuck with it and faithfully tuned in. Then the Simpsons went to Africa. It was the season's 17th episode, "Simpson Safari," and Bart and Homer were doing a traditional Maasai tribal dance when I lost it. After denying it for so long, everything suddenly became crystal clear: The Simpsons had become totally unrecognizable. I broke up with The Simpsons that night.
I asked a few  staffers to share the reasons why they ended their own affairs with The Simpsons, and I got the following responses: "Saddlesore Galactica," the untimely death of Phil Hartman (the voice of Troy McClure), and the emergence of South Park.
And now I ask you, handsome and charming readers, when The Simpsons went south for you. Or, if you think the series is still going strong, let us know why in the comments!


The Simpsons Seasons 1-21 DVD Box Set

The Simpsons 20 Years: The Complete Season 20 DVD Boxset

South Park Seasons 1-13 DVD Box Set