Looks like bad news for "The Simpsons" fans as the actor who voices multiple characters including, Mr. Burns and Ned Flanders, has announced his departure from the show.

Harry Shearer, the comic actor who voices characters such as Mr. Burns, Smithers, Principal Skinner, Otto and Ned Flanders has reportedly thrown in the towel after 26 years. The 71-year-old voice artist took to his Twitter to announce that he would not be returning in forthcoming season of "The Simpsons." Shearer cited his desire to work on other projects for his decision.

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The actor quoted James L. Brooks' lawyer, who reportedly stated that while the "show will go on, Harry will not be a part of it." Brooks is the producer of the long, long-running American animated sitcom.

With seasons 27 and 28 of "The Simpsons" slated to enter production shortly, it was reported that Shearer was holding off the process by not signing his contract on time. Although Shearer says he wanted the freedom to do other work, it is not yet clear why exactly the show parted ways with the ace comedian, The Verge noted.

There is a possibility that the move may somehow be related with merchandising payments, but whatever it is, unquestionably, Shearer's departure in the iconic show loses some of its most unforgettable characters, said reports.

According to TMZ, Shearer was the only actor who did not sign for the upcoming seasons, in the wake of merchandising issue that had not been resolved. The comedian's tweets, however hint otherwise.

Shearer has been tirelessly promoting his weekly radio program Le Show, which he hosts and Nixon's the One, a YouTube series he not only co-created but also stars in. Following his announcement about quitting the show, the veteran actor and comedian has been flooded with messages of support.

In 2014, when Shearer was asked if he saw "The Simpsons" as a job for life, he said the show will continue until Fox finds a new hit comedy show for 8pm. He further added, "Based on their track record so far, I'd give us another 50 years."

According to Shearer, the beauty of the show is that he gets to play multiple characters.

TagsThe Simpsons, Harry Shearer, Mr. Burns, Ned Flanders, Otto, Smithers, Principal Skinner, Nixon's the One, Le Show