Fox to air live Simpsons episode with Homer featuring in a Twitter Q&A
The Simpsons is to verge on new territory in an upcoming episode featuring Homer taking part in a live Twitter Q&A.
The three minute segment will use motion-capture technology with the voice actor behind Homer, Dan Castellaneta, who will discuss topical subjects and respond to fan questions for the final three minutes of its regularly scheduled episode.
Fans will be able to submit their questions on Twitter using the hashtag #HomerLive and will see the iconic character’s voice and motions depicted in an animated scene.
Showrunner Al Jean told The Hollywood Reporter:”As far as I know, this is the first time that's been done by any animated show."
He said that the live part of the show would fit in with the overall theme of the episode, which explores improv comedy and added "Dan is a great improviser".
While the move may be a first for an animated TV show, the motion capture technology has already been successfully used by Fox Sports. The Simpsons team has reportedly been able to learn from its network’s sports programming division and has already conducted multiple tests.
The episode will air on May 15, with Homer’s special segment airing live on both coasts’ broadcasts.