MUMBAI: Fox’s blockbuster hit series, The Simpsons, has become the inspiration for a new ride at Universal’s theme parks.

Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa and Maggie Simpson – stars of TV’s longest running series – will ride along with guests in a new mega-attraction opening at Universal Orlando Resort and Universal Studios Hollywood in Spring 2008.

Guests will experience a side of Springfield previously unexplored as they enjoy the new ride’s interpretation of thrill rides, dark rides and “live” shows that make up a new fantasy amusement park dreamed up by the show’s cantankerous Krusty the Clown.

Universal’s award-winning creative team is collaborating with The Simpsons creator and executive producer Matt Groening and executive producer James L Brooks to create and open the first-ever mega-attraction based on the blockbuster TV series. It will feature the show’s classic humour and many of its recognisable characters – all voiced by the original actors, the release adds.

“The ride is designed to duplicate the Simpsons home-viewing experience, only at high speed and with lots of screaming,” states Groening.