By Fred Topel | Image property of respective holders
The Simpsons Ride
The Simpsons showrunner and executive producer Al Jean brought his own family to the opening of The Simpsons Ride at Universal Studios. He also ensured that fans of the show would recognize the irreverent tone even while they wait in line at the theme park.
Al Jean Rides The Simpsons
"As you'll see, there's a lot of satire of other theme parks," said Jean. "We make fun of safety videos. We make fun of everything and there's a lot of detail. It's really something where you can look at it again and again and ride it again and get a lot out of it."
Aside from the main characters, fans will find good supporting cameos as well. "Let's see. There's Homer and Krusty and the family and Apu and Groundskeeper Willie, Moleman, Patti and Selma, Chief Wiggum. Of course Sideshow Bob is a very big part in the ride. Kelsey did the voice as he's always done. It was great."
The Simpsons Ride replaces Back to the Future: The Ride, to which Jean was sensitive. "I love going on rides like The Terminator here. It was a real dream come true to be able to work on this."
The Simpsons Ride is now open at Universal Studios Hollywood.