Actor Harry Shearer has reversed his decision to leave The Simpsons after 26 seasons.
Earlier this year, Simpsons devotees the world over were shocked to learn that actor Harry Shearer would be leaving the show after more than of a quarter century. The voice behind more than twenty characters including fan favorites like Mr. Burns, Ned Flanders and Principal Skinner, his departure represented a huge (and arguably irreparable) blow to the long-running cartoon. That being the case, reports yesterday have indicated that Shearer will, in fact, be returning for the series’ 27th and 28th seasons.
Fox revealed Shearer’s return in an announcement yesterday where it stated that it was “proud to confirm that each and every member of iconic series’ voice cast will be returning in the roles they’ve brought to life since the show’s beginnings as a series of animates shorts nearly 30 years ago.” Showrunner Al Jean, speaking on Twitter, later added that he’s “truly glad he is returning to the show.”
Shearer had previously passed up on a $14 million contract citing, in part, his desire to “do other work.” His return will see him accepting that same deal, earning him an estimated $300,000 per episode. While this new contract will initially tie him into the next two seasons, it will also include an option for two more should the show be renewed past season 28. In other words, Simpsons fans have at least another four years of Mr. Shearer’s vocal talent to look forward to.
Source: The Hollywood Reporter
