Dan McGrath, Emmy-Winning ‘The Simpsons’ Writer And Producer, Dies At 61

Dan McGrath, a prolific and widely admired animation writer and producer, died on November 14 at the age of 61 following a stroke.

Over more than three decades in television, he brought a distinctive blend of intelligence, absurdity, and emotional nuance to some of the medium’s most influential animated series, including working on several of The Simpsons‘ most memorable episodes.

McGrath began his TV career at NBC’s Saturday Night Live in 1991, a writing stint that quickly established him as a sharp, often fearless writer with an instinct for the collaborative writing style of the sketch comedy show. His work at the show earned him an Emmy nomination and opened the door to a decades-long career.

He joined The Simpsons in 1992 and became a major contributor during one of the series’ most celebrated eras. Between 1992 and 1994, he was a story editor and writer on dozens of episodes, and later produced two full seasons of the show. His writing and producing work helped shape iconic episodes and gags, including segments that remain staples of the show’s enduring legacy. In 1997, he won the Emmy for outstanding animated program for his work on the Season 8 episode “Homer’s Phobia,” which became one of the series’ most acclaimed entries for its, at the time, revolutionary inclusion of an openly gay character. It was almost two decades later before Smithers finally officially came out.

Other standout episodes from McGrath included “The Devil and Homer Simpson,” “Time and Punishment,” “Bart of Darkness,” several “Treehouse of Horror” installments, and “Boy-Scoutz ’n the Hood.”

After leaving The Simpsons, McGrath continued his work in adult and prime-time animation. He wrote for another Fox staple, King of the Hill, for eight years, contributing episodes that demonstrated his ability to balance more grounded character work with sometimes surreal comedy. His time on the series earned him a Writers Guild nomination. He also contributed to Mission Hill, The PJs, Gravity Falls, Sammy, and Muppets Tonight, among other titles.

McGrath’s work was marked by an unusual range in that he could craft detailed genre parodies, emotionally grounded character-driven narratives, and high-speed slapstick comedy with equal aplomb.

Away from television, McGrath had a long-time connection to experimental theater, having been involved in founding the troupe that eventually became the Cornerstone Theater Company.

McGrath’s official obituary concludes: “His prodigious talents and singular personality will be missed by many devoted friends.”

McGrath is survived by his mother, Eleanor; his brothers, Michael (and wife Caroline) and Peter; his sister, Gail; his nephew, Dillon; and his nieces, Kylie and Emma.