Following the news that The Simpsons will be renewed for two more seasons, long-time Simpsons vet Harry Shearer has turned to Twitter to announce his departure from the show. Reports indicate Shearer was the only hold-out from the main cast due to his interests outside of voicing many iconic characters. The actor tweeted his announcement late last night:
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 many characters Shearer voiced, including Mr. Burns, Ned Flanders, Waylon Smithers, Reverend Lovejoy, Dr. Hibbert, Lenny Leonard, Otto Mann, Rainier Wolfcastle, and many others will reportedly be re-cast. However, CNN Money reports the rumors may be a bit premature and that Shearer and The Simpsons producers are still currently negotiating a new deal, despite the aforementioned Twitter announcement.
This is a huge blow to the storied series and dedicated Simpsons fans. However, TV show holdouts are nothing new, and re-tooled contracts tend to pull through in the 11th hour. However, if this truly is Shearer’s departure from the show, we wish him nothing but the best.
[via USA Today]