The Simpsons recently announced it'll stick around for at least two more seasons, but the show will have to go on without one of its major voice actors. Harry Shearer announced last night he'll leave the show after 26 seasons, meaning he'll no longer play Mr. Burns, Smithers, Principal Skinner, and Ned Flanders.
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, 2015In a statement showrunner Al Jean said the show won't kill off Shearer's characters and will find new voice actors for the roles. That feels even weirder going forward than it would be to lose the characters entirely. Perhaps it's time for the show to finally call it quits. Who wouldn't understand after a run this long?
