Pygmoelian and My Fair Laddy

These two episodes both parody the same story, Pygmalion and its musical counterpart My Fair Lady.

Both of these episodes revolve around two of the most unattractive men in Springfield.  In the original play and musical, Eliza Doolittle is transformed from an unpolished flower-woman to a sophisticated, polished lady.  For these two episodes, both Moe and Groundskeeper Willie are transformed.  Unfortunately, both men return to their former selves, instead of keeping the new life they are given.

Pygmoelian – After Moe realizes how ugly he is, he has plastic surgery.  Moe soon gains fame and fortune as the star of a soap opera.  Moe learns his character is going to be killed off.  In retaliation, Moe reveals many of the future plot lines and is fired from the show.  On his way out, a piece of the set falls on his face and Moe is returned to his former self.

My Fair Laddy – Probably a closer parody than Moe’s episode.  After Willie’s shack is destroyed, he comes to live with the Simpson family.  Lisa decides to improve his life by turning him into a proper gentleman as her science fair project.  Bart does not think Lisa can accomplish this and the two enter into a bet.  Willie stuns everyone at the science fair with his new identity and Lisa wins the science fair and the bet.  However, Willie is unhappy in his new life and returns to his shack and job as groundskeeper.