The entertainment world is mourning the loss of acclaimed comedy writer Dan McGrath, who passed away at the age of 61. The Emmy-winning scribe, best known for his work on legendary animated series The Simpsons and cult favourite Mission Hill, died on Friday according to family announcements.
A Family's Heartbreaking Announcement
News of McGrath's passing first emerged through social media, with his sister Gail McGrath Garabadian sharing the devastating news on Facebook. 'We lost my incredible brother Danny yesterday,' she wrote. 'He was a special man, one of a kind. An incredible son, brother, uncle and friend. Our hearts are broken.'
The writer died at NYU Langone Hospital in Brooklyn after suffering a stroke, his sister later confirmed to The Hollywood Reporter. McGrath had built an impressive career spanning decades, leaving an indelible mark on American comedy.
From SNL to Springfield: A Storied Career
McGrath's television writing career began in 1991 when he joined the legendary Saturday Night Live team. During his tenure at SNL, he became a frequent collaborator with comedy giants Adam Sandler and Chris Farley, earning an Emmy nomination for his work on the show.
His most celebrated achievements came with The Simpsons, where he eventually won an Emmy Award for his contributions to the iconic animated series. Despite his success, McGrath's journey with the show was unconventional - he was reportedly fired twice from The Simpsons writing team.
Beyond Springfield, McGrath enjoyed an almost decade-long stint at King of the Hill and contributed to the beloved animated mystery series Gravity Falls as a story editor during its first season. His work on Mission Hill established him as a creative force in alternative animation.
Industry Tributes Pour In
Former colleagues and fans have been sharing heartfelt tributes across social media platforms since news of his passing broke.
Bill Oakley, television writer and film producer who worked closely with McGrath, posted on X: 'R.I.P. today to Dan McGrath, great person and super-talented writer at The Simpsons, SNL, King of the Hill, and Mission Hill, where he was right-hand man to @Joshstrangehill and me - and responsible for the incredible Gus & Wally episode.'
Disney fan accounts and animation professionals also paid their respects, with animator Patrick Jenkins writing: 'Rest in peace Dan, thanks so much for your continuous contribution to keeping the Simpsons television series alive longer!'
McGrath's additional accolades included a Writers Guild Award nomination for 'Life: A Loser's Manual', showcasing the breadth of his comedic talent beyond animated television.
The writer's legacy extends across multiple generations of comedy fans, having contributed to some of the most influential television shows of the past three decades. His work continues to entertain audiences worldwide, ensuring his creative spirit lives on through the timeless episodes he helped craft.
