Dan McGrath, Emmy-winning write for 'The Simpsons, dies at 61

Dan McGrath, Emmy-winning comedy writer for The Simpsons known for his work on iconic productions like Saturday Night Live and King of the Hill, passed away on November 14 at the age of 61.

McGrath's sister, Gail McGrath Garabadian, announced her brother's passing in a Facebook post on Saturday.

"We lost my incredible brother Danny yesterday," she wrote. "He was a special man, one of a kind. An incredible son, brother, uncle and friend. Our hearts are broken."

McGrath's first big break after college came on the show Saturday Night Live. He provided additional sketches for various episodes of SNL's 16th season and became a vital part of the season 17 writing staff alongside famed SNL writer Jim Downey, Herb Sargent, and Al Franken.

McGrath switched from live-action to animation after joining The Simpsons in 1992 as a story editor. where he rose through the ranks to ultimately serve as executive story consultant and wrote two episodes, including the fifth installment in the popular "Treehouse of Horror" Halloween series. McGrath went on to win an Emmy for his work on the fourth season of the show.

He also worked on Muppets Tonight and King of the Hill, for six seasons, from 2003-2009 as well as episodes of the animated comedy series The PJs, Sammy, and Mission Hill.

McGrath is survived by his family including his mother, brothers, sister. nephew and nieces.

In lieu of flowers, his family requests that fans and loved ones donate to his alma mater, Regis High School.