Fresh off his star turn in the alleged pro-homosexual video We Are Family, cartoon icon SpongeBob SquarePants is set to star in a new promotional video for a contraceptive sponge.

SpongeBob sidekick and spokesperson Patrick said the move had nothing to do with the public outcry over his appearance in the controversial video.

"SpongeBob believes in equality and tolerance for all people," said Patrick. "Just as he was glad to appear in a video promoting an "alternative" lifestyle, he's happy to help promote safe, effective heterosexual birth control as well."

Patrick was quick to point out, however, that SpongeBob was approached by the product's marketing team about appearing in the video, and not the other way around.

"It may seem like SpongeBob is playing both sides of the fence," said Patrick. "But appeasing his critics is the furthest thing from his mind. He really just believes in the product."