Simpsons' 'Steamed Hams' Creator Returns to Albany

Bill Oakley brings his iconic sketch to life in a special live event.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 4:37pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A stark, minimalist illustration featuring a simple black silhouette of a steaming hamburger bun against a bright red background, capturing the surreal and iconic nature of the 'Steamed Hams' sketch.The creator of the iconic 'Steamed Hams' sketch from 'The Simpsons' returns to Albany for a special live event.Albany Today

Emmy Award-winning writer and former 'Simpsons' showrunner Bill Oakley, the creator of the beloved 'Steamed Hams' sketch, will present a 60-minute live show in Albany, New York on Tuesday at Druthers. The event will feature the inside story of how the iconic segment was conceived and produced.

Why it matters

The 'Steamed Hams' sketch from 'The Simpsons' has become a beloved internet meme, with fans around the world endlessly recreating and remixing the surreal and hilarious exchange. Oakley's return to Albany, where the sketch is set, will give fans a rare behind-the-scenes look at the origins of this pop culture phenomenon.

The details

Oakley, who was a writer and showrunner on 'The Simpsons' in the 1990s, will present a 60-minute live show at Druthers in Albany. The event will feature Oakley sharing the inside story of how 'Steamed Hams' was created, including details about the writing process, the inspiration behind the sketch, and how it was animated and produced for the show.

  • The live event will take place on Tuesday, April 14, 2026.

The players

Bill Oakley

An Emmy Award-winning writer and former showrunner for 'The Simpsons', who is best known as the creator of the iconic 'Steamed Hams' sketch.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“'Steamed Hams' has become such a beloved part of Simpsons lore, and I'm thrilled to be able to share the inside story with fans in Albany, where the sketch is set.'”

— Bill Oakley, Writer and Former Simpsons Showrunner

What’s next

Tickets for the live event are on sale now and expected to sell out quickly.

The takeaway

The return of 'Steamed Hams' creator Bill Oakley to Albany is a rare opportunity for fans to get an intimate look at the origins of one of the most beloved and iconic sketches in 'Simpsons' history.