Excellent: Harry Shearer Returning to THE SIMPSONS

Sorry, Ted Cruz, The Simpsons doesn't have an opening for voice talent anymore. After reportedly leaving The Simpsons due to a contract dispute, Harry Shearer will continue to voice countless characters on the long-running animated show. Entertainment Weekly broke the news on Tuesday.

Shearer has signed the same contract as did the other five primary voice actors—Dan Castellaneta, Yeardley Smith, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, and Hank Azaria—keeping the show’s original cast fully intact, EW has learned. These deals, which run for four seasons (including a network option for seasons 29 and 30), are estimated at more than $300,000 per episode.  

While The Simpsons fans had hoped Shearer would return to the show, things looked bleak in May. Shearer and executive producer Al Jean had exchanged words over Twitter, but months went by without resolution.

That changed on Tuesday.

I would like to clear up a misunderstanding. I have recently been told that during a period where Harry Shearer believed he had a (MORE)

— Al Jean (@AlJean) July 7, 2015

five week free period from the Simpsons, I was unaware of this fact, and did in fact request material from him. If so, my bad. I am (MORE)

— Al Jean (@AlJean) July 7, 2015

truly glad he is returning to the show.

— Al Jean (@AlJean) July 7, 2015

Shearer retweeted Brooks' message before adding his own.

Said it at the beginning, even truer at the end: thanks to Simpsons fans for your support; wouldn't have happened w/out you!

— Harry Shearer (@theharryshearer) July 7, 2015

The Simpsons is set to return for its 27th season this fall.