Derek Smalls not returning to Simpsons?

Simpsons fans may have to get used to not seeing Ned Flanders, Mr. Burns and Principal Skinner anymore… or at least maybe hearing them with slightly different voices. Harry Shearer, who voices those characters (and many more) tweeted last night that he will not be returning to the show, the news being delivered by the lawyer of The Simpsons‘ producer James L Brooks:

Like what’s happening with David Lynch and the new Twin Peaks, this may be just very public negotiation, but Variety reports that the show — the longest running in television history — has already begun production of its 27th season without Shearer, who you may also know as Derek Smalls from Spinal Tap (and lots of other stuff.) It’s looking pretty certain, as showrunner Al Jean told CNN, “We do not plan to ‘kill off’ his characters, but replace them with the most talented members of the voice over community.” How do you feel about having someone else voice Mr. Burns? Do you still watch the show? The 26th season finale of The Simpsons airs this Sunday (5/17) on FOX.