Which Prominent Atheist Is Getting a Starring Role on 'The Simpsons'?

Evolutionary biologist Richard Dawkins is known for his atheistic views, as he regularly speaks out against religious constructs and takes aim at the theological systems that billions of the world's citizens embrace. While he's known for his academic and sociopolitical activity, the outspoken activist is preparing to make a foray into entertainment.

On Sunday, March 10, the outspoken scientist will be given an even larger platform when he appears on "The Simpsons." On the surface, this may appear to be a joke, but it's not. In fact, Dawkins will be playing himself in the cartoon's next episode.

Richard Dawkins is slated to appear in "The Simpsons." While he was spoofed in "South Park," he didn't lend his voice to the show's creators. This image, though, shows how he was depicted in a past episode. No screen shots from his upcoming "Simpsons" episode have been released yet. (Photo Credit: South Park Studios)

While few details have been released about the plot and how he'll be depicted, his inclusion is a welcome development for atheist activists who continue to seek cultural relevancy. The Futon Critic, a web site that provides television news and information, has a limited amount of information about the episode.

The synopsis claims that Lisa, a character on the show, is "harassed by a bullying new teacher." The educator will be voiced by actress and comedian Tina Fey, however there's no word surrounding what Dawkins' role in the episode will be. A synopsis reads:

Flanders becomes jealous when his laid-back parents start to prefer Homer's company over his and he faces unbearable guilt after punching Homer in the eye, as he desperately tries to reconcile with him. Meanwhile, Lisa is distressed by her new substitute teacher (guest voice Tina Fey), who bullies her for no apparent reason in the "Black-Eyed, Please" episode of THE SIMPSONS airing Sunday, March 10 (8:00-8:30 PM ET/PT) on FOX.

Based on the description, the role could be relatively small, with only a few seconds on-screen. Then again, there's really no telling how many lines the animated Dawkins will deliver, as the show's producers may be purposefully keeping the details under wraps.

Headliner Richard Dawkins, founder of The Richard Dawkins Foundation for Reason and Science, speaks during the National Atheist Organization's 'Reason Rally' March 24, 2012 on the National Mall in Washington, DC. Credit: Getty Images North America

Text on the Futon Critic's web site simply reads, "Tina Fey and Richard Dawkins Make Guest-Voice Appearance" and "Guest Voice Cast: Tina Fey as Ms. Cantwell and Richard Dawkins as himself."

Dawkins confirmed his participation by tweeting a link to an announcement on his web site last night.

[blackbirdpie url="https://twitter.com/rdfrs/status/309167995224199170"]

As The Friendly Atheist blog notes, Dawkins has already been featured (although he didn't offer his voice up) on "South Park," another edgy and popular cartoon. While he was being teased on the episode, his inclusion is noteworthy.

The clip is too graphic to share on TheBlaze, but its existence shows that Dawkins' influence apparently extends beyond the atheist activist community -- a movement he helps lead.

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