Simpsons actress Marcia Wallace dies aged 70

The US actress Marcia Wallace, best known as the voice of Bart Simpson's teacher Edna Krabappel, has died at the age of 70.

Her death was announced in a statement from executive producer Al Jean.

Wallace won an Emmy in 1992 for her work on The Simpsons, as a jaded, grumpy fourth-grade teacher, forced to put up with Bart's antics.

Jean said her "irreplaceable character" would be retired from the show.

"I was tremendously saddened to learn this morning of the passing of the brilliant and gracious Marcia Wallace," he said on Saturday.

"She was beloved by all at The Simpsons. It's a terrible loss for all who had the pleasure of knowing her."