Murdoch hits the big time with Homer

It may seem that media mogul, Rupert Murdoch, has already done it all

It may seem that media mogul, Rupert Murdoch, has already done it all. The super-rich businessman has interests spanning the globe; he has received a Papal knighthood and is seeking control of Manchester United. But think again.

Mr Murdoch has just received what is arguably the highest accolade of modern times. He is the latest addition to the exalted ranks of celebrities portrayed in yellow animation on The Simpsons, joining previous guest stars, including Paul and Linda McCartney, Michelle Pfeiffer, Elizabeth Taylor, Tom Jones and U2.

According to the Guardian, Mr Murdoch - chairman of Fox, the film company which produces the series - is immortalised as a stroppy executive whose corporate hospitality box at the Superbowl is invaded by the insatiable Homer Simpson.

Mike Scully, executive producer of The Simpsons, explained how the studio's owner came to mind for the cameo role. "We were looking for someone famous and powerful that would be a funny confrontation with Homer and we thought - Mr Murdoch. He gave us an immediate yes. Murdoch added: "Well, they asked me to play myself. I was amazed - I couldn't imagine how I could be a character in The Simpsons. It was just a nice joke!"