Update

: Shearer has revealed to CNN there is still time for him to remain part of the cast, but only if producers enable him to do other work.

Reiterating what he said in his tweets, Shearer told the site: "In last four years, I've created and starred in a UK TV series and starred on London stage. Not stopping."When asked whether he could still continue on the show, he answered: "I think that's a question better posed to them."For now, it seems like negotiations are ongoing but Shearer's decision to push them into the public domain is his way of playing hardball. For more on the story as it develops, stick with IGN, and continue reading below for the original news.



from James L. Brooks' lawyer: "show will go on, Harry will not be part of it, wish him the best.". (1/2) — Harry Shearer (@theharryshearer) May 14, 2015



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

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Harry Shearer, prominent voice actor on The Simpsons since 1989, will no longer be part of the iconic animated series.Shearer confirmed the news himself on his Twitter account , and suggested the departure was a result of a conflict between himself and The Simpsons' showrunners. "This is because I wanted what we've always had: the freedom to do other work", Shearer said.Shearer voiced multiple characters in the series, including (but hardly limited to) Ned Flanders, Principal Skinner, Mr Burns, Waylon Smithers, Lenny, Jasper, Otto, Kent Brockman, Reverend Lovejoy, and Julius Hibbert.How The Simpsons will continue without Shearer is anyone's guess. This hasn't been the first time a prominent voice actor has left a gap in the show - the deaths of both Phil Hartman and Marcia Wallace made an irreparable impact - but the breadth of Shearer's work is enormous.Earlier this month, it was announced that The Simpsons would be renewed for two more seasons. Its 26th season is currently airing, while the 27th and 28th seasons will take the series up to 625 episodes.

Lucy O'Brien is Entertainment Editor at IGN’s AU office. Follow her ramblings on Twitter.