JK Rowling to star in The Simpsons

JK Rowling and Sir Ian McKellen are to appear in a forthcoming episode of The Simpsons set in London.

Lisa bumps into the Harry Potter author outside a bookshop after Bart wins a family trip to Britain.

And McKellen is first hit by falling scaffolding and struck by lightning after the Simpsons curse him by saying the name Macbeth out loud, bringing bad luck according to theatrical superstition.

The cartoon's executive producer, Don Payne, says, "We're very excited about the episode, and rest assured every British cliche will be trotted out to get a laugh."

Creator Matt Groening had reportedly invited Tony Blair to make a cameo appearance in the episode, too.

Published: 26 Feb 2003