The Simpsons” fans are still reacting to the surprise death of Moe’s Tavern regular Larry Dalrymple - aka Larry the Barfly - on Sunday’s episode, “Cremains of the Day.” And “The Simpsons” co-executive producer Tim Long has the explanation for why the show did it.

"The Simpsons," to fans' dismay, has killed off original character Larry the Barfly after 35 years. A man of few words and true to his nickname, Larry Dalrymple was often seen at Moe’s Tavern drinking beer. There, he'd see Homer, Lenny, Carl and Moe, who he considered his best friends — even though they never really talked.

Larry the Barfly, who debuted on the first ever episode of “The Simpsons,” was killed off in season 35, episode 15, which aired April 21. Here’s how Homer and more paid tribute.