Simpsons character to come out of the closet

Fans of hit cartoon The Simpsons are poised for big news - one of the show's long-time characters is set to reveal he's gay.

At the moment, many fans are betting the character in question will be Waylon Smithers - who works for evil nuclear tycoon Mr Burns - but the show's producers are refusing to confirm or deny who it is.

Producer Al Jean says: "We have a show where, to raise money, Springfield legalises gay marriage. Homer becomes a minister by going on the internet and filling out a form. A longtime character comes out of the closet, but I'm not saying who."

Show creator Matt Groening jokes, "It's Homer!"