Archbishop Williams set for Simpsons role

The Archbishop of Canterbury, head of the world's 70 million Anglicans and a self-declared devotee of the US television hit The Simpsons, could soon be paying Homer, Marge, Bart and Lisa a visit in Springfield.

Producers of the animated comedy have invited Archbishop Rowan Williams, 54, to take part in an episode after he praised the programme for its humour and humility, Britain's Sunday Times newspaper reported.

"We'd love to have him on the show... It's a great thrill that the archbishop is such a fan," executive producer Al Jean said.

"In the beginning, some religious groups in the United States disliked the show, so to have such a prominent religious leader defend it is great," he added. A spokesman for the archbishop said they had not yet received an invitation but that it would certainly be considered.

"It would be a very intriguing prospect," he added. The programme, known for its stinging satire, has featured a host of celebrities in the past, including rock stars and Hollywood actors.