Emmy Award-winning writer Steve Pepoon, known for 'The Simpsons', dies at 68

He was battling cardiac amyloidosis, a heart condition, for two years.

He died in Paola, Kansas on May 3, his wife Mary Stephenson told The Hollywood Reporter.

Announcing the news on Facebook, his family said: "It is with deep sadness that the family of Steve Pepoon announces his passing on Saturday, May 3, 2025. Steve was a beloved member of our family and was cherished by many friends. He will be greatly missed. A celebration of life event is being planned, and details will be shared soon."

Pepoon was born in the US's Kansas City on May 19, 1956. He grew up in Paola, Kansas, and graduated from Kansas State University. He moved to Los Angeles in 1979, breaking into the TV industry with a script in 1985. His script later became an episode of 'Silver Spoons' that aired in January 1986.

Fifteen months later, he was hired as a staff writer on 'ALF', another NBC comedy, and wrote for its final three seasons through 1990.

Pepoon's career was marked by his work on other iconic shows like 'Roseanne' and 'The Wild Thornberrys', which he co-created. His most celebrated achievement was writing 'The Simpsons' episode ''Homer vs. Lisa and the 8th Commandment" (1991), which earned him a Primetime Emmy for Outstanding Animated Program.

The episode, centred on Homer's illegal cable hookup and Lisa's moral stand, showcased his sharp wit.

Fans flooded social media platforms, condoling the death by sharing clips and quotes from his Emmy-award-winning episode. Many highlighted his ability to craft relatable, timeless stories that resonate across generations.