Harry Shearer, the voice behind Mr. Burns, Ned Flanders, and Principal Skinner, is leaving ‘The Simpsons’ after 26 years.
On Wednesday night, the fan favorite tweeted:
from James L. Brooks' lawyer: "show will go on, Harry will not be part of it, wish him the best.". (1/2)
— Harry Shearer (@theharryshearer) May 14, 2015
This because I wanted what we've always had: the freedom to do other work. Of course, I wish him the very best. (2/2)
— Harry Shearer (@theharryshearer) May 14, 2015
Thanks, Simpsons fans, for your support.
— Harry Shearer (@theharryshearer) May 14, 2015
The show released a statement that the famous characters will be recast “with the finest voiceover talent available” instead of killed off.
Fox recently renewed the series for two more seasons through 2017 and the rest of the “Simpsons” voice cast have already signed contact extensions.
Production on season 27 has already begun… without Shearer.