Is the end nigh for The Simpsons, the beloved prime-time television behemoth over at FOX? Probably not, but the show will be vastly different after 26 seasons now that original cast member Harry Shearer is no longer going to be a part of Springfield.
The comedy and voice actor — who’s responsible for such characters as Mr. Burns, Smithers, Principal Skinner and Ned Flanders — announced his departure via Twitter on Wednesday 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
Amazingly, we had hints that something was up when TMZ reported Sunday that Shearer was the only cast member who wasn’t signed on for the show’s two-season renewal at FOX. Too bad most ignored that small tidbit of news over the weekend. According to the original report, Shearer hadn’t signed due to back-end and merchandising issues that hadn’t been cleared up.
Until we know what’s really going on, I guess it’s time to say buh-dilly-bye-dilly to our ol’ neighbor Harry. You will be missed, sir.
