Chuck Kennedy/DiscoverySweeps, shmeeps. MythBusters is creating its own must-see TV come December, when its very special guest star will be none other than President Barack Obama.
We know he's the commander in geek, but what prompted the leader of the free world to stop by a basic cable show?
As part of an effort to highlight science education (it sure ain't to get more air time), the commander in chief will appear on a Dec. 8 question to ask hosts/mad scientists Jamie Hyneman and Adam Savage to test the myth that the Greek scientist Archimedes inspired a generations of little boys with magnifying glasses by using the sun's reflection on mirrors to set fire to invading Roman fleets back in 214 B.C.
"I can announce today that I taped a special guest appearance for their show, although I didn't get to blow anything up," Obama said. "I was a little frustrated about that."
Incidentally, while Obama's appearance is intended to boost science education, it's no doubt a blow to history buffs everywhere. The show first busted this so-called death ray myth back in 2004. Challenged by fans to retest their findings, they busted it again in 2006 with help from MIT students.
Um, third time's a charm?