The Simpsons: 10 Guest Spots That Almost Went To Someone Else
5. Johnny Cash in “El Viaje Misterioso de Nuestro Jomer”
One of the most underrated guest appearances in The Simpsons has to be Johnny Cash as the spirit coyote in *deep breath* "El Viaje Misterioso de Nuestro Jomer" from Season 8. Cash's deep, soothing tones and his in-built aura of mysticism are a perfect match for this wise, all-knowing mutt and the veteran singer-songwriter performs his lines perfectly.
Another iconic performer was also tipped for this role, as the writers had narrowed their choice down to Cash or Bob Dylan. You can see why the writers wanted Dylan; his gravelly voice would fit the role, his star power was enormous, and if there was anyone who could bring real-life experience to going on a wild, hallucination-filled trip, it was Bobby D.
Cash was eventually chosen because the show had been burned by Dylan before. The singer had turned down appearances on the show multiple times in the past, including a spot in the aforementioned "Homerpalooza". Not wanting to get "Springsteened" again, the writers went for the safe option of Johnny Cash. Only on The Simpsons could you get a genuine meeting about whether Johnny Cash or Bob Dylan should voice your magical desert dog. What a show.