After an impressive 26 seasons, Harry Shearer is leaving The Simpsons. Shearer is the man behind many key characters on the long-running animated series, including Mr. Burns, Ned Flanders and Principal Seymour Skinner.

Shearer confirmed the news via Twitter last night:

It's also being widely reported that Shearer's departure was ultimately due to a contract dispute. Simpsons executive producers Matt Groening, James L. Brooks and Al Jean also confirmed the news via statement: “Harry Shearer was offered the same deal the rest of the cast accepted, and passed. The show will go on and we wish him well. Maggie took it hard.”

The statement assures fans that Burns, Flanders and other characters voiced by Shearer will be recasted with "the finest voiceover talent available"—so, no worries: The fates of Skinner and co. are safe. 

Two days ago, FOX announced that Seasons 27 and 28 of The Simpsons are officially a go. Meanwhile, the Season 26 finale of The Simpsons will air this Sunday, May 17.