"The Simpsons" opened its 26th season with a touching tribute dedicated to the late Joan Rivers.
On Thursday night, "The Simpsons" episode entitled "Jewish Heaven" revolved around the death of Rabbi Hyman Krustofsky and a brief feature of the former "Fashion Police" host, according to Examiner.
The brief feature showcased Rivers alongside other Jewish people, like the Marx Brothers that Krusty the Clown thought would likely be in heaven with his father, Rabbi Hyman.
Back in 2011, Rivers gave life to the character of Krusty's agent and lover. Her character was portrayed highly similar to how Rivers looked in real life, but much younger.
"The Simpsons" executive producer Al Jean revealed that at the time of Rivers' death on September 4, they just knew they had to include her in their season premiere, E! News reported.
In an interview with USA Today, Jean explained, "She did the show three years ago and it was really sweet. I had met her and told her how when my parents went to Vegas in the '70s, all they could talk about was seeing her act and how funny she was... About a week after she passed away, I thought that it wouldn't be hard for us to just put her in, because she had done the show and we had the design."
Prior to Thursday night's airing of Rivers' tribute, Jean announced her inclusion via Twitter and teased, "I'm sure she'd like it, because there's no Johnny Carson."
Meanwhile, also on Thursday night's episode, one character was axed off the series. Prior to "The Simpsons" 26th season premiere, Jean already hinted on the possibility of killing off a character.
Thousands of fans from all over the world speculated on the possibility of seeing Homer or Krusty the Clown die.
However, it was later on confirmed that Krusty's father Rabbi Hyman was the one who was sent packing.
