Harry Shearer has indicated via Twitter that contract disputes have led to him quitting the hit TV show, ‘The Simpsons’, after nearly 25 years.
Shearer who voices the characters of Ned Flanders, Mr Burns and Principal Skinner among others, tweeted that signing up for a new series would prevent him from taking part in other work. 
“This because I wanted what we’ve always had: the freedom to do other work.”
The US actor suggested him imminent departure from the show by quoting an assurance from producer and writer of the show, James L Brooks, that the show will go on.
“From James L. Brooks’ lawyer: ‘show will go on, Harry will not be part of it, wish him the best’.”, Shearer tweeted this morning.
It was reported earlier in the week that Shearer was holding off signing a new contract, with TMZ, the entertainment website, claiming it could be due to merchandising payments.
Last week the Fox network confirmed it had commissioned two more series of the long-running animated sitcom.
Shearer followed up with a tweet thanking the fans of ‘The Simpsons’ for their support.