Patty reveals her Simpsons secret

She's best known for her chain-smoking, hairy legs and love of TV troubleshooter MacGyver.

But now Marge Simpson's sister, Patty Bouvier, has been revealed as Springfield's closet homosexual.

News that the cartoon series was going to feature a gay marriage sparked fierce speculation over which character would be coming out - Waylon Smithers, Mr Burns's devoted assistant, was favourite.

But the latest episode of The Simpsons, shown in the US on Sunday, revealed it was the steadfastly celibate Patty.

In the show, gay marriage is legalised in Springfield. Homer sees the chance to make some quick cash by getting a permit to conduct ceremonies.

He writes the services, starting each with the words: 'Queerly beloved, we are gathered here today,' but is shocked when one customer turns out to be his sister-in-law who wants to marry her girlfriend.

Throughout the series there have been various hints at Patty's preferences.

In one episode she was seen at a carnival riding on the Stayin' in the Closet float along with Smithers.