The Simpsons is going live (yes, you read that right)

Homer will do a live 3-minute Q&A

Fox has announced that its 15 May episode of The Simpsons will feature a live Q&A from Homer Simpson.

Homer, voiced by Dan Castellaneta, will field questions for the final three minutes of the episode, broadcast live on both the East and West coasts of the US.

How the hell can an animation be live? Showrunner Al Jean told The Hollywood Reporter it has been months in preparation, and that motion capture technology will be used ‘in which Homer's voice and motions will be depicted in an animated scene talking about things he "could only be saying live on that day.”’

"As far as I know, this is the first time that's been done by any animated show," Jean added, explaining that the live segment ties in with the overall improv comedy theme of the episode, “and Dan is a great improviser."

Fox is asking viewers to tweet their questions for Homer between 1 and 4 May using the hashtag #HomerLive.

The network has been trying to incorporate more live elements late - perhaps to combat repeat viewing culture - recently airing a live version of Grease.