Derren Brown has landed a new role on television, with the star set to appear on the upcoming Christmas special for The Simpsons.
The mentalist and illusionist will feature in ‘O C’mon All Ye Faithful’, which, in celebration of the animated sitcom’s 35th anniversary, is the first double-length Christmas episode in the history of the show.
The story will see Brown enter Springfield in a bid to raise the spirits of the residents. After using psychological tricks and showmanship, Homer inadvertently gets hypnotised and subsequently believes he is Santa Claus.
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As per the logline, this sets off a “cheery chain-reaction and causes everyone to question what they believe and to explore the meaning of ‘miracle’”, with several hijinks and laughs expected along the way.
“It’s the best thing that’s happened in my life so far,” said Brown of his new role. “I had just started writing Only Human, my new touring show, when the call came in. I was asked to keep it very quiet for the time being, so I immediately told everyone I met.
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“I did wonder if it meant I had reached a level of such stratospheric success that I no longer needed to write the new show, but I have been politely assured that is not the case. I’m not against stepping out on stage with bright yellow make-up.”
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Brown’s role is said to be substantial when compared to other guests in The Simpsons, with writer Carolyn Omine saying: “In terms of lines and screen time it is probably one of the largest guest starring roles we’ve ever had and he is fantastic, charming and very funny in the episode.”
‘O C’mon All Ye Faithful’ will also feature musical performances from Patti LaBelle and Pentatonix, with the episode set to premiere on Disney+ in the UK on December 17.
The Simpsons streams on Disney+.
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Reporter, Digital Spy George is a freelance writer who specialises in Movies and TV. After graduating with a degree in Film Studies and Journalism from De Montfort University, in which he analysed the early works of Richard Linklater for his dissertation, he wrote for several websites for GRV Media. His film tastes vary from blockbusters like Mission: Impossible and John Wick to international directors such as Paolo Sorrentino and Hirokazu Kore-eda, and has attended both the London and Berlin film festivals.
