Television writer Dan McGrath, known for shaping some of the sharpest comedy of the 1990s and early 2000s, has died at the age of 61. His sister, Gail Garabadian, confirmed that he passed away on Friday at NYU Langone Hospital after suffering a stroke.
McGrath leaves behind an extraordinary comedic legacy. His writing and producing credits stretch across some of the most iconic shows in TV history, including The Simpsons, Saturday Night Live, King of the Hill, Gravity Falls, and Mission Hill. Fans of The Simpsons will recognize his work from the show’s famed “Golden Era,” where he contributed to 50 episodes between 1992 and 1994. Those included beloved classics such as “Mr. Plow,” “Marge vs. the Monorail,” and “Deep Space Homer,” episodes that have long been staples in the show’s comedic canon.
McGrath also earned an Emmy for his writing on the groundbreaking episode “Homer’s Phobia,” which tackled intolerance and helped bring LGBTQ themes into mainstream animation with empathy and humor.
Before and during his time on The Simpsons, McGrath contributed 24 sketches to Saturday Night Live in the early ’90s, writing for stars like Macaulay Culkin, Steve Martin, and Sharon Stone. His quick wit and ability to craft sharp, memorable moments made him a standout voice in the writers’ room.
Born in Brooklyn in 1964, McGrath’s talents extended beyond television. He also taught comedy and cultural theory at The Center for Fiction, sharing his insights with aspiring writers and deepening his impact on the next generation of storytellers.