Beloved comedy writer Dan McGrath, known for shaping some of television’s most memorable animated moments, has died at the age of 61.
McGrath passed away on November 14 at a Brooklyn hospital after suffering a stroke. His sister, Gail McGrath Garabadian, shared the heartbreaking news online, calling him a “one-of-a-kind” brother whose loss leaves the family devastated.
Born in Brooklyn in 1964, McGrath studied at Regis High School and later Harvard University, where he helped lead The Harvard Lampoon and directed theater productions.
His sharp wit earned him an Emmy nomination for his work on “Saturday Night Live” in 1992, during which he frequently wrote with stars Chris Farley and Adam Sandler.
McGrath’s most celebrated achievement came with the “Homer’s Phobia” episode of “The Simpsons,” which earned him an Emmy in 1997. The episode addressed themes of acceptance and misunderstanding through its humorous yet heartfelt story.
He also contributed to other fan-favorite episodes, including “Boy-Scoutz ’n the Hood,” “The Devil and Homer Simpson,” and “Time and Punishment.”
Beyond “The Simpsons,” McGrath wrote for “Mission Hill,” “King of the Hill,” “Sammy,” “The PJs,” and “Muppets Tonight.”
McGrath is survived by his mother, Eleanor, his siblings, Peter, Michael, and Gail, and his wife, Caroline.
Friends and colleagues remembered him as a warm, generous creator whose humor and heart left a lasting mark on the world today.
