The Simpsons: all the characters written off the show

The Simpsons producer recently apologised to fans of the show after a long-standing background character, Larry “the Barfly” Dalrymple was killed off in the show.

From Mona Simpson to Maude Flanders and Fat Tony.. Here are all The Simpsons characters that died or were written off the show in its 35 seasons.

'Bleeding Gums' Murphy

A jazz musician who first appeared in season one's "Moaning Lisa," Murphy served as an inspiration and mentor to Lisa before dying from a heart attack in season six.

Maude Flanders

The wife of Ned Flanders and a regular character on the show, Maude tragically died in season 11 after being struck by t-shirts fired from a cannon at the Springfield Speedway.

Dr Marvin Monroe

Introduced in season one, Dr. Monroe offered the Simpsons therapy before his death was confirmed in the "138th Episode Spectacular." His gravestone and the Marvin Monroe Memorial Hospital were later shown in the series.

Rabbi Hyman Krustofsky

Springfield's respected Rabbi and father of Krusty the Clown, was introduced to the show in season three when Bart and Lisa tried to reunite the father and son. In season 26 episode, 'Clown in the Dumps,' Krusty asks the Rabbi if he thinks he's funny to which he responds, "Eh," before slumping back in his chair and dying.

Mona Simpson

Homer's estranged mother, Mona appeared in flashbacks of his childhood before reappearing in season seven. Despite attempts to reconnect with her son, Homer learns of her death after finally agreeing to reconcile with her.

Fat Tony

The boss of the Springfield mafia, Fat Tony died in season 22 from a suspected heart attack. He was replaced by his cousin, Fit Tony, who then becomes the new "Fat Tony".

Edna Krabappel 

A teacher who appeared in the show's first 25 seasons, Edna was retired following the death of her voice actor, Marcia Wallace, in 2013, out of respect for the actor.

Apu Nahasapeemapetilon

The character was quietly phased out years ago following controversy that the character is racist towards South Asians.

The character’s voice actor Hank Azaria later also apologised “to every Indian person” for his portrayal of Apu on the show.