An animated debate
Row over Simpsons insult
The producers of The Simpsons has hit back over claims the show has hit a slump.
Actor Harry Shearer, who plays Montgomery Burns, Ned Flanders and others, recently criticised the writing, saying: "I rate the last three seasons as the worst."
Now producer Al Jean has retaliated in the New York Post: "I just think it's an insult to all of us who work so hard. Harry doesn't put in that much time working on the show compared to the writers and producers.
"For someone earning millions off the show this year, it's unfathomable for him to take a shot at us. He's a guy who's been a malcontent, in my view.
"I don't know why I have to defend the quality of the show to Harry Shearer. I think this past season was great, and I'm just so shocked that he would say that."Published: 10 Aug 2004
