'The Simpsons' composer fired after 27 years

LOS ANGELES: Alf Clausen, who has served as composer on Fox's long-running hit " The Simpsons" for the past 27 years, has been fired.

Clausen claimed that he was told by show producer Richard Sakai that the animated sitcom was seeking a "different kind" of music for its upcoming 29th season, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

Over his nearly three decades working on the show, Clausen racked up over 20 Emmy nominations, with two wins on the show in 1997 and 1998 for outstanding composition.

The Simpsons' iconic opening theme was not written by Clausen, but by Oscar nominee Danny Elfman.

The theme is expected to continue to be used for the upcoming season.

Fox refused an offer to comment on Clausen's dismissal.