You really haven't made it until you've done a guest spot on The Simpsons . Hence the stampede over the years of the famous - including three Beatles - and infamous looking for a spot on this pop-culture train. Herein, a selection of stars who've rubbed shoulders with the first family of television.
Ringo Starr, 1991
The ex-Beatle was the show's first notable guest star, playing himself, responding to a fan letter from Marge decades before ("Please pardon the lateness of my reply").
Michael Jackson, 1991
The late King of Pop played a mental-institution inmate named Leon Kompowsky, who believed he was Michael Jackson.
Sting, 1992
When Bart becomes trapped in a well, the former Police singer performs the song We're Sending Our Love Down the Well.
Johnny Carson, 1993
The late talk-show host agrees to take part in a comeback concert to revive Krusty the Clown's career. The episode includes guest voices from Hugh Hefner, Bette Midler, Luke Perry and the Red Hot Chili Peppers.
George Harrison, 1993
In a flashback episode, Homer recounts his days as a barbershop-quartet singing idol and his meeting the former Beatle. When Homer's group reunites on a rooftop, Harrison quips, "It's been done."
Paul and Linda McCartney, 1995
The celebrity vegan couple introduce Lisa Simpson to the joys of a no-meat lifestyle - much to Homer's chagrin.
Britney Spears, 2000
The teen pop tart co-hosts the Springfield Pride Awards, which includes an award to the town's oldest man, 108-year-old Cornelius Chapman. When Britney kisses Cornelius, he drops dead from a heart attack.
The Who, 2000
An area-code change splits the town of Springfield in two, but only one half will be allowed to see a free concert by the Who.
Richard Gere, 2001
Lisa renounces her Christian faith, which leads to a chance meeting with the famously Buddhist actor. And who knew that Lenny and Carl were also Buddhists?
Tony Blair, 2003
The Simpsons decide to travel to London for a holiday. Upon arrival, they are greeted by the British prime minister, who claims to perform the service for all visitors.
Ellen Page, 2009
The Halifax-born actress plays a Hannah Montana-esque pop idol named Alaska Nebraska who befriends Lisa Simpson.