Crisis averted, "Simpsons" fans.
Comedian Harry Shearer — the voice behind some of the most beloved characters on "The Simpsons" — has signed a deal to stay with the series, according to a report from The Hollywood Reporter.
On Tuesday, the magazine confirmed that Shearer had signed a two-year deal with an extra two-year option, ending a long holdout from the actor. In May, Shearer tweeted a message from one of the show's creators that made it sound as if the series was moving on without him.
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
Shearer was thinking of leaving in order to have "the freedom to do other work," according to his tweets on May 14.
The 71-year-old actor has been part of "The Simpsons" cast since its first season in 1989. He provides the voice of Mr. Burns, Ned Flanders, Principal Skinner, Waylon Smithers and Kent Brockman, among many others.
Before "The Simpsons," Shearer co-starred in "This is Spinal Tap" and was a cast member on "Saturday Night Live." He is also a radio host and author.
Clint Davis is a writer for the E.W. Scripps National Desk. Follow him on Twitter @MrClintDavis.