Dan McGrath, an Emmy-winning comedy writer who left a significant mark on classic animated shows like The Simpsons and King of the Hill, has died. He was 61. His sister confirmed he died on November 14, 2025, after suffering a stroke.
McGrath was a key creative force during what many fans consider the “golden era” of The Simpsons. He contributed to 50 episodes of the show as a writer and worked on another 24 as a producer. His work extended to other beloved series, including Saturday Night Live, where he was nominated for an Emmy, and a nearly decade-long stint on King of the Hill.
A Confirmed Loss for the Comedy World
The news of McGrath’s passing was shared by his sister, Gail McGrath Garabadian, who posted a heartfelt message on Facebook.
“We lost my incredible brother Danny yesterday. He was a special man, one of a kind. An incredible son, brother, uncle and friend. Our hearts are broken,” she wrote.
She later confirmed to The Hollywood Reporter that McGrath died at NYU Langone Hospital in Brooklyn and that the cause of death was a stroke.
A Legacy of Iconic Episodes
McGrath’s career in television comedy began on Saturday Night Live in 1991. During his two seasons there, he was part of the team that earned an Emmy nomination in 1992 and frequently collaborated with comedy legends like Adam Sandler and Chris Farley.
His most celebrated work, however, was on The Simpsons. He won an Emmy of his own in 1997 for writing the acclaimed episode “Homer’s Phobia.” The episode, which featured guest voice actor John Waters, was widely praised by organizations like GLAAD for its smart and funny anti-homophobia message. Among his other standout episodes are fan favorites like:
- “Boy-Scoutz ‘n the Hood”
- “Bart of Darkness”
- “Time and Punishment”
- “Treehouse of Horror IV” and “V”
McGrath himself joked that he was fired twice from the show, though he later returned as a producer. After his time with the Simpson family, he spent eight years writing and producing for King of the Hill, contributing to 11 episodes and producing 28 others from 2002 to 2010. His other writing credits include Gravity Falls, Mission Hill, The PJs, and Muppets Tonight.
Education and Early Career
Born on July 20, 1964, in Brooklyn, McGrath was a graduate of Regis High School and Harvard University. At Harvard, he was deeply involved with the famed humor publication The Harvard Lampoon, serving twice as its vice president. He also co-founded an avant-garde theater company that later evolved into the Cornerstone Theater Company, showcasing his passion for performance and directing from an early age.
McGrath is survived by his mother, Eleanor; his brothers, Michael and Peter; his sister, Gail; his sister-in-law, Caroline; his nephew, Dillon; and his nieces, Kylie and Emma. In lieu of flowers, his family has requested that donations be made to Regis High School.
A visitation is scheduled at McLaughlin & Sons Funeral Home in Brooklyn, with a service to follow at St. Patrick’s Church.
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