Harry Shearer is stepping down from playing Dr. Hibbert on The Simpsons. The white voice actor has been playing a Black character for 30+ years. Shearer’s last episode as the character was in last night’s episode, Diary Queen.
Starting February 28th, the episode is Wad Goals; Richardson will take over the role. Richardson has had voice roles on the long-running animated show since 2009. Richardson has also voiced characters in Family Guy, The Cleveland Show, and American Dad.
Shearer has explained in regards to the decision:
“The job of the actor is to play someone who they’re not. There’s a conflation between representation, which is important. People from all backgrounds should be represented in the writing and producing ends of the business so they help decide what stories to tell and with what knowledge … The job is playing someone I’m not.”
What do you think about this decision?
Source: Vulture
Make sure to check out our podcasts each week including Geek Vibes Live, Top 10 with Tia, Wrestling Geeks Alliance and more! For major deals and money off on Amazon, make sure to use our affiliate link!
A girl with too many fandoms to count.
