In line with a world-wide cultural movement in the entertainment industry to stop using white actors to voice non-white characters, The Simpsons' famous black chuckling Dr. Hibbert has been replaced by Kevin Michael Richardson.
Fox network told Sky News that Harry Shearer, who also voices Ned Flanders and Principal Skinner in the show, has handed over the reins to Richardson after a 30-year run as the voice of Dr. Hibbert.
Shearer's last episode as The Simpsons' chuckling doctor, aired in the US this week
Kevin Michael Richardson is a classically trained actor, born in the Bronx, New York, and easily recognizable by his deep voice which he has used in many well-known roles including Mortal Kombat (1995) as Goro. and Matrix Revolutions (2003) as Deus Ex Machina. He is also known for his work on the fellow animated shows Family Guy, The Cleveland Show, and American Dad,
Fox said Richardson will make his debut in the upcoming season 32 episode Wad Goals.
Dr. Hibbert flanked by Harry Shearer on the left and newcomer to the role, Kevin Michael Richardson on the right.
