White actor to be replaced as voice of Dr Hibbert on The Simpsons

Harry Shearer, who has played the character of Dr Hibbert on The Simpsons for more than 30 years, has been replaced by a black performer (Ian West/PA)

The white voice actor who has played the character of Dr Hibbert on The Simpsons for more than 30 years has been replaced by a black performer.

Harry Shearer first portrayed the chuckling medical professional – who is black – in 1990. His last episode as the character aired in the US this week.