“‘Simpsons’ and ‘King of the Hill’ Writer Dies at 61”
Dan McGrath, an Emmy-winning writer and producer known for his work on *The Simpsons* and *King of the Hill*, has passed away at the age of 61. He died on Friday at NYU Langone Hospital in Brooklyn after suffering a stroke, as confirmed by his sister, Gail Garabadian.
Career Highlights
McGrath began his career at *The Harvard Lampoon* and later joined *Saturday Night Live* in 1991. His time there, which lasted two seasons, earned him an Emmy nomination in 1992. He often collaborated with comedic icons Adam Sandler and Chris Farley.
Contributions to *The Simpsons*
McGrath had a notable impact on *The Simpsons*. He worked on 50 episodes from 1992 to 1994 and held a producer role for 24 episodes from 1996 to 1998. Some of his most memorable episodes included:
- “The Devil and Homer Simpson”
- “Time and Punishment”
- “Bart of Darkness”
- “Treehouse of Horror” segments
- “Homer’s Phobia,” which won him an Emmy in 1997
McGrath had a humorous take on his career, joking about being a co-chairman of the Tamaribuchi Heavy Manufacturing Concern and noting that he was let go from the show twice.
Work on *King of the Hill*
From 2002 to 2010, McGrath contributed to *King of the Hill*, receiving writing credit on 11 episodes and producing credit on 28. His notable works included:
- “Full Metal Dust Jacket”
- “The Minh Who Knew Too Much”
Personal Background
Born on July 20, 1964, in Brooklyn, Daniel Anthony McGrath was the son of Gerard, a machinist and electrician, and Eleanor, a homemaker. He attended Regis High School in Manhattan before earning a degree in East Asian Studies from Harvard University in 1987. While at Harvard, he directed innovative plays and designed educational computer games for a company at MIT.
Legacy and Survivors
In addition to his mother and sister, McGrath is survived by his brothers, Michael and Peter; his sister-in-law, Caroline; his nephew, Dillon; and his nieces, Kylie and Emma. Commemorative donations can be made to Regis High School.
Funeral Arrangements
A visitation will be held at McLaughlin & Sons Funeral Home in Brooklyn starting at 5 p.m. on Monday. A service will take place at St. Patrick’s Church in Brooklyn at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday.
