Internet Bookie Posts Odds on Simpsons Characters Coming Out of Closet


MONTREAL, Jan. 7, 2005 (PRIMEZONE) -- Rumors that Springfield will legalize gay marriage on an upcoming episode of the Simpsons is sparking talk amongst fans that one of the main characters will come out of the closet. Who will it be: Smithers? Mr. Burns? Homer?

"Fan Websites are running rampant with speculation that the mystery gay character could be any one of the animated sitcom stars," says Mike Foreman, spokesperson for BetUS.com.

Over the past few years, gamblers have been tuning into pop culture and betting on everything from reality TV and celebrity romances to trial verdicts.

"Online gambling is no longer focused solely on sports; entertainment wagers are gaining popularity among bettors," says Foreman. "The Simpsons craze is just one of many new betting options available to our players."

According to Foreman, Internet gambling has appealed to a new demographic that no longer just includes the typical sports bettor. "Now men and women can experience the same exhilaration that sports fans experience when they lay down a wager on their favorite team. Placing a wager on a TV show makes the show even more fun and exciting to watch," said Foreman.

The Simpsons episode is expected to air sometime this month, and BetUS.com recently posted odds making Patty the favorite at 4/5, and Mr. Burns' sidekick, Smithers, is the second favorite at 4/1. Gamblers can bet on the most popular Springfield cast members at BetUS.com.



 Patty       -150     Selma    +900      Ned          +1500
 Smithers    +425     Apu      +1000     Mr. Burns    +1600
 Milhouse    +800     Carl     +1300     Homer        +2000
 Lenny       +900     Moe      +1400

BetUS.com (http://www.BetUS.com) is one of the oldest and most respected legal online sports betting organizations in the world and is licensed and bonded in two recognized gaming jurisdictions -- Canada and Costa Rica. Employing over 500 people, BetUS.com provides a safe and secure place for sports wagering to more than 100,000 clients. Members can enjoy wagering on some of their favorite sports including: football, basketball, baseball, hockey, golf and boxing. BetUS.com has been in operation for 11 years and also offers Vegas-style casino games and interactive poker.



 Media Inquires                              General Inquiries
 Crystal Harris                              Mike Foreman
 Media Relations Manager                     Company Spokesperson
 1-800-577-1105                              1-800-993-1236
 crystalh@ltbaroda.com                       mikef@ltbaroda.com