Ray Magini is voiced by Ray Romano who also plays Ray Barone in "Everyone loves Raymond".
Homer and Ray discuss this show at the end of the episode.
This episode foreshadows another one of "The Simpsons" predictions, the tragic suicide of Sawyer Sweeten. While working on Homer's roof, Ray Romano's character receives a message on his pager that his son attempted... something. He then has to leave.
Title is a play on the song "Don't Fear the Reaper" by Blue Öyster Cult.
Dan Castellaneta also worked with Ray Romano in 2 episodes of Romano's sitcom 'Everybody Loves Raymond' (1996-2005).
This episode would appear to be a play on the 14 year running gag from Sesame Street regarding Mr. Snuffleupagus with nobody but Big Bird being able to see him or near-misses