Dan McGrath, Iconic The Simpsons and King of the Hill Writer, Dies at 61

by

Dan McGrath, a talented writer known for his work on popular shows like The Simpsons, King of the Hill, and Mission Hill, has passed away at 61. He died on November 14th at NYU Langone Hospital in Brooklyn after a stroke, as reported by The Hollywood Reporter. McGrath was an Emmy winner who also contributed to Saturday Night Live and The Harvard Lampoon. However, he’s best remembered by animation fans for writing some of the most beloved and enduring episodes of The Simpsons and King of the Hill.

Mike McGrath has written for 50 episodes of The Simpsons and produced 20, but he’s most known for writing two particularly beloved episodes: Season 5’s “Boy-Scouts ‘n the Hood” and Season 6’s “Bart of Darkness.” He also contributed to two standout segments from the Treehouse of Horror series: “The Devil vs. Homer Simpson” (from Treehouse of Horror IV) and “Time and Punishment” (from Treehouse of Horror V), with the latter often considered one of the best Halloween specials the show has ever done.

Dan McGrath Made a Big Impact on Animation

Brendan McGrath has significantly impacted animation, extending beyond adult-oriented shows. Many viewers may not know he also worked on popular Disney series like Gravity Falls. He’s contributed to other well-known animated programs, including The PJs and Mission Hill. Notably, he wrote one of the most memorable and innovative episodes of Mission Hill, titled “Plan 9 from Mission Hill (or I Married a Gay Man from Outer Space).”

McGrath is also fondly remembered for his work on King of the Hill, where he wrote eleven episodes. Some of his best episodes include Season 7’s “Full Metal Dust Jacket” (featuring Peggy’s struggling bookstore), Season 8’s “Girl, You’ll Be a Giant Soon” (where Luanne protests propane), and Season 11’s “Blood and Sauce,” a particularly memorable episode showcasing the relationship between Bill and Bobby. Throughout his long and funny career, he clearly left a lasting impact on adult animation.

Dan McGrath (1964-2025)

Dan McGrath, a comedy writer who won an Emmy and worked on shows like Saturday Night Live, The Simpsons, and Gravity Falls, passed away recently. Born in Brooklyn to Gerard and Eleanor McGrath, he attended Regis High School and Harvard University, where he was involved in theater and served as vice president of the Harvard Lampoon. He is survived by his mother, Eleanor, and his siblings Michael, Peter, and Gail, as well as nieces and nephews Dillon, Kylie, and Emma. A service will be held on November 17th.

The obituary noted that he will be deeply missed by his many friends, highlighting both his exceptional abilities and unique character. The family has asked that, instead of sending flowers, donations be made to Regis High School. We extend our heartfelt sympathy to his family, friends, and all who knew and loved him.

https://comicbook.com/tv-shows/news/new-king-of-the-hill-season-hulu/embed/#

via The Hollywood Reporter

Read More

2025-11-16 20:10