Harry Shearer Has Left 'The Simpsons'

The 71-year-old comic actor, who voices the characters Mr. Burns, Ned Flanders and Principle Skinner, is leaving from the animated TV show after 26 seasons.

It is suggested his departure has been caused by a contract dispute with bosses.

Revealing that the lawyer for 'The Simpsons' producer James L. Brooks had delivered the news he was off the series, Shearer took to Twitter: "From James L. Brooks' lawyer: "show will go on, Harry will not be part of it, wish him the best.". (1/2) ... 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) (sic)"