Strike threatens Los Simpsons

MEXICO CITY - The famed voices of Bart and Homer Simpson could be silenced across Latin America by a dispute between a Mexican actors union and the firm that dubs the US television show's dysfunctional family into Spanish.

Mexico's ANDA union, which represents circus jugglers and soap opera divas alike, is standing behind the striking actors who provide the Spanish-language voices of The Simpsons for Latin American audiences.

The company in dispute with the actors also dubs other American television shows like Malcolm in the Middle, which are aired on Fox Latin America Channels and have a following from Mexico to Argentina.

A union leader said a Mexican labour arbitrator is reviewing the dispute and is expected to rule on Friday.

A ruling against the actors would allow the dubbing company, Grabaciones y Doblajes Internacionales, to hire non-unionized talent for the shows.

Claudia Motta, who does the voice of Bart Simpson in Spanish, told Reuters she would give up the character she has dubbed for the last eight years before giving up her union benefits. "I would let Bart go."

ANDA said about 500 actors working for the dubbing company went on strike last month. Company officials were not available for comment.

- REUTERS