The episode sees Edna Krabappel and Ned Flanders begin dating, their relationship being left to the public vote.
Chalmers orders Edna to report to a rubber room where teachers spend agonizing days waiting until their fates are decided.
Unfortunately, the other barflies then make references to Edna's extensive dating history, and Ned is surprised that she has been with many of Springfield's men, including Aerosmith drummer Joey Kramer.
"[2] When asked why the writers thought Ned and Edna were the right characters for a cliffhanger like this, Jean said that "In life, unusual things happen.
[note 2] The cliffhanger was resolved midway through the 23rd season premiere "The Falcon and the D'ohman" by revealing Ned and Edna were still a couple, as the real-world poll overwhelmingly voted to keep them together.
"[4] In its original American broadcast, "The Ned-Liest Catch" was viewed by an estimated 5.25 million households and received a 2.5 rating/7 share among adults between the ages of 18 and 49.
Club gave the episode a C. Kaiser liked Bart's misbehavior and the resultant commentary on the American education system but disliked Ned and Edna's pairing and the subsequent audience participation stunt.
Homer then insults the show's viewers, but Marge corrects him, saying there is plenty for the fans to check out on TheSimpsons.com, and advises them to watch the next episode in order to find out the results of the Ned and Edna relationship.
Following the October 2013 death of Marcia Wallace, Fox paid tribute to her with a re-broadcast of "The Ned-Liest Catch" preceding the premiere of "Four Regrettings and a Funeral"; the latter's chalkboard gag consisted of a single "We'll really miss you Mrs. K."[9] Fox originally announced that the third season episode "Bart the Lover" would air as the tribute but was unable to obtain clearance to air the episode in time.