After 26 years, Harry Shearer, the voice of Ned Flanders, Mr. Burns, Principal Skinner, Otto, Smithers, and many more on Fox’s The Simpsons, has announced his departure on Twitter.
Shearer posted that he would not be returning for the upcoming seasons of The Simpsons, and thanked his fans for their continual support.
“From James L. Brooks’ lawyer: ‘show will go on, Harry will not be part of it, wish him the best’,” Shearer wrote, referring to the show’s executive producer. The comedian wrote, “This because I wanted what we’ve always had: the freedom to do other work. Of course, I wish him the very best.”
Producer Al Jean posted on Thursday morning confirming the news, writing, “The show will go on, made by people who love it and see in it the most wonderful vehicle for satire ever.”
When asked if Shearer was given what he wanted, he continued, “[In] my view we did [offer what him what he wanted] and he still passed. [Shearer] was offered the same deal as other 5 [cast members].” Jean explained that Shearer’s characters would be recast. “No yellow wedding,” he joked.
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