'The Simpsons' star Harry Shearer has announced that he’s QUIT the hit cartoon series, despite playing some of its most loved characters.

Shearer - who voices Ned Flanders, Mr. Burns, Principal Skinner, Otto, Smithers and many more favourites - took to Twitter to confirm that he won’t be taking part in the new seasons of the show.

The actor quoted' The Simpsons' writer and producer James L. Brooks’ lawyer when announcing the news, who reportedly said that while the "show will go on, Harry will not be part of it."

He added: “This because I wanted what we've always had: the freedom to do other work. Of course, I wish him the very best.

“Thanks, Simpsons fans, for your support.”

TMZ previously claimed that production for series 27 and 28 of the show was delayed by Shearer, who was ‘holding out’ on signing his contract.

It’s currently unknown what will happen to Flanders and Co, with Shearer giving them a voice for 26-years!