Mr Smithers, the long suffering assistant to Mr Burns on 'The Simpsons' is to finally come out as gay during the show’s latest season. The character’s sexually had long been hinted at on the show, but the new season will see Smithers finally telling Mr Burns.

the simpsonsMr Smithers will come out as gay in a new 'Simpsons' episode.

Speaking to TV Line, 'The Simpson’s' executive producer Al Jean said, "In Springfield now, most people know he's gay, but obviously Burns doesn’t. We deal with that in two episodes.”

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“We actually do a lot with Smithers this year - he gets fed up with Burns not appreciating him and considers his options,” Jean added. The show had long suggested that Smithers was gay and may even be in love with his boss Mr Burns.

'The Simpsons'’ 27th season premiered on Fox last night, with an episode which featured a guest appearance from ‘Girls’ star Lena Dunham. This season will also feature Kristen Bell and Sofia Vergara as well as Kelsey Grammar returning as Sideshow Bob.

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Mr Smithers is voiced by Harry Shearer who in May was reported to have left the series following a pay dispute. However in July it was announced Shearer would indeed be back for the show’s 27th season. Shearer also provides the voices for characters such as Mr. Burns, Ned Flanders, Dr. Hibbert, Waylon Smithers and Principal Skinner.