Harry Shearer Exits ‘The Simpsons’ Over Contract Dispute

Harry Shearer, one of The Simpsons‘ longest running voice actors, will no longer be a part of the animated series.

Harry Shearer Leaves ‘The Simpsons’

Shearer announced his departure from the Fox show on Thursday with a pair of tweets after rumors started to swirl that he was hesitating to extend his contract through the 27th and 28th seasons of The Simpsons because of a disagreement over merchandising rights. According to Sheerer, he wanted the freedom to pursue work outside of The Simpsons.

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

Shearer didn’t go into further detail about the contract dispute, but did thank his fans for supporting him in the matter.

Thanks, Simpsons fans, for your support.

— Harry Shearer (@theharryshearer) May 14, 2015

Also taking to Twitter to address the shakeup was The Simpsons executive producer Al Jean. Though he didn’t directly address Shearer, Jean did seem to be directing his remarks at the actor.

.@thesimpsons #everysimpsonsever The show will go on, made by people who love it and see in it the most wonderful vehicle for satire ever.

— Al Jean (@AlJean) May 14, 2015

Shearer has been a member of The Simpsons cast since 1989, voicing upwards of 21 characters. His most notable characters are tycoon Montgomery C. Burns, neighbor Ned Flanders and principal Seymour Skinner.