The 18th Season Brings New Voices to 'The Simpsons'

E! Entertainment just announced that 'The Simpsons' will continue the show's already established tradition of bringing new stars to voice over various characters. In later years, it has become a sort of tacit recognition of the state of celebrity to be invited to appear in the famous long-running animated TV show.

Among the stars that will bring their personal contribution to the show are hottie Natalie Portman, '24' leading actor Kiefer Sutherland, comedians Jon Lovitz and Eric Idle, the alternative rock band White Stripes, 'Sopranos' bad boys Joe Pantoliano and Michael Imperioli and TV psychologist Dr. Phil McGraw.

The first episode of the 18th season is to air on Sunday, September 10 on FOX and the ones that are to feature the voices of the celebrities already mentioned are scheduled as follows: September 17 - 'Jazzy and the Pussycats' (the White Stripes, as themselves), November 5th - 'Treehouse of Horror XVII' (Dr. Phil), November 12 - 'GI (Annoyed Grunt)' (Kiefer Sutherland).

Besides the set episodes, a few more will also include the voices of other famous people but, up to this point, they have been only announced and no date has been given for their airing (except a vague 'later in the season'): Tom Wolfe, Gore Vidal, Michael Chabon, Jonathan Franzen and Hamlin.