Harry Shearer, the voice of Mr. Burns, Leaves ‘The Simpsons’

Harry Shearer, the voice of iconic characters Mr. Burns and Ned Flanders, announced that he would be leaving "The Simpsons" after 26 seasons. Shearer was also the voice of Principle Skinner, Waylon Smithers and several other characters.

The voice actor announced his departure from the FOX cartoon show early Thursday morning.

He tweeted:

(Brooks is the producer on the show)

The reasons behind Shearer's decision to leave the show have not been disclosed. The tweets, however, suggest that there might have been a contract dispute that was not getting resolved.

The show's executive producer Al Jean has been very active on Twitter in regards to the news about Shearer.

Jean tweeted, "The show will go on, made by people who love it and see in it the most wonderful vehicle for satire ever."

He also tweeted a response to fans of the show, stating, "In life I never say never," before adding that they would recast the role if "Harry does not return."

"The Simpsons" was recently renewed for two more seasons. The rest of the cast, who includes Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith, and Hank Azaria, has signed contract extensions. Production on the upcoming season has reportedly started without Shearer, Variety stated.