Homer and Marge Simpson are to separate in 'The Simpsons'.

The animated couple - who have children Bart, Lisa and Maggie in the popular sitcom - are set to ''legally'' separate in an upcoming episode after Homer ''falls in love'' with a pharmacist, voiced by 'Girls' writer and actress, Lena Dunham.

Show producer Al Jean told Variety: ''In the premiere, it's discovered after all the years Homer has narcolepsy and it's an incredible strain on the marriage. Homer and Marge legally separate, and Homer falls in love with his pharmacist, who's voiced by Lena Dunham. We'll have cameos from the other women from 'Girls.'''

It has not yet been confirmed whether the pair's split will be permanent.

The latest shocking announcement comes just days after it was revealed Bart Simpson is set to be killed off by the villainous Sideshow Bob in a one-off Halloween special during the show's 27th season, which kicks off in September, although will return to the series as normal in subsequent episodes.

Al said: ''Bob will finally somehow actually execute Bart - and then won't know what to do with himself after his life's mission has been accomplished.''

Harry Shearer, who voices Mr. Burns and Ned Flanders, recently announced he is leaving the show after failing to agree with show bossed on a new contract.