Looks like Harry Shearer squeezed some more “D’oh!” out of “The Simpsons.”
Shearer, who voices decrepit Mr. Burns, obsequious Waylon Smithers, God-fearing Ned Flanders and Principal Skinner — among others — has returned to the iconic Fox ’toon after announcing in mid-May that he was leaving over a contract dispute because, as he tweeted, he “wanted what we’ve always had: the freedom to do other work.”
Fox, which previously said that Shearer would be replaced by other voice actors, announced Tuesday that he’s signed a new deal to return for the show’s 27th and 28th seasons — along with series stars Dan Castallaneta (Homer), Julie Kavner (Marge), Nancy Cartwright (Bart), Yeardley Smith (Lisa) and Hank Azaria (Apu).
“Truly glad he is returning to the show,” series executive producer Al Jean tweeted out Tuesday.
Contract details for Shearer, and the other cast members, were not disclosed.
The main “Simpsons” cast inked new deals in 2011 which paid them a reported $250,000 per episode — down from the $400,000 per episode they had been earning previously.
In addition to his work on “The Simpsons,” Shearer, 71, hosts NPR’s “Le Show,” is a regular ensemble player in Christopher Guest’s big-screen comedies (“This Is Spinal Tap,” “Best in Show,” “A Mighty Wind,” “For Your Consideration”) and directed the big-screen documentary “The Big Uneasy” (about Hurricane Katrina).