After reports in May that Harry Shearer, the voice of several of the most prominent characters on The Simpsons, would be leaving the show after 26 years, reports now say he will return for the 27th season.
According to a report over at TV Line, Harry Shearer has signed a new two-year contract with the series. Shearer voices Mr. Burns, Flanders, Seymour Skinner, Smithers, Otto, and a handful of other periphery characters. the Simpsons had planned to move on from Shearer, even trying to fill the void he would leave behind on the show, which had been renewed for two more seasons.
The public dispute over contract negotiations had gotten a bit heated between the attorney for James L. Brooks, executive producer Al Jean, and Shearer, who said via Twitter he was excited to explore other work:
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
Brooks made sure to let Harry Shearer know the powers that be were still trying to work out a deal for him to return:
Hey, we tried. We're still trying. Harry, no kidding, let's talk.
— james l. brooks (@canyonjim) May 14, 2015
Luckily, the public bickering ended, and Shearer signed on to continue his excellent voice work with the longest-running sitcom in TV history. If you ask me, The Simpsons would not be The Simpsons were it not for the diverse vocal talents of Harry Shearer. This is a win for everyone who is a fan of the show.
[photo credit: The Daily Beast]
