'The Simpsons' boss says Mr. Burns, other Harry Shearer characters will be recast

The Simpsons Mr. Burns, Smithers

This image released by Fox shows Mr. Burns, left, and his assistant Smithers, both voiced by Harry Shearer, in a scene from the long-running animated series, "The Simpsons."

(The Associated Press)

"The Simpsons" showrunner Al Jean has confirmed that voice actor Harry Shearer is leaving the show after 26 years, but his characters will live on.

Jean told Esquire on Thursday that Mr. Burns, Ned Flanders, Smithers, Principal Skinner, Kent Brockman and other Springfield residents voiced by the 71-year-old talent will be recast with new actor(s).

"We do not plan to kill off characters like Burns and Flanders but will recast with the finest voice over talent available," Jean told the magazine. "The show will go on and we wish [Shearer] well. Maggie took it hard."

Finding a replacement may be difficult, though, as Shearer was the voice of more than 100 characters, including Otto Mann, Dr. Julius Hibbert, Lenny Leonard, Rev. Timothy Lovejoy, Jr. and Scratchy. He had been with the longest-running animated series since its first full-length episode, "Simpsons Roasting on an Open Fire," aired on December 17, 1989.

"The Simpsons" has been renewed for two more seasons, 27 and 28. Shearer said on Twitter that he refused to renew his contract because he wanted "the freedom to do other work". TMZ reported the "This Is Spinal Tap" star's negotiations broke down over money issues, specifically on the back end and merchandising.

"Show will go on, Harry will not be part of it, wish him the best," Shearer said "Simpsons" executive producer James L. Brooks' lawyer stated. "Thanks, Simpsons fans, for your support," Shearer added.

Brooks, however, tweeted Thursday afternoon that the door is still open: "Hey, we tried. We're still trying. Harry, no kidding, let's talk."

Shearer has not yet responded.

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