Steve Pepoon, Emmy-winning writer for The Simpsons and the Wild Thornberrys, dies at 68
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The world of television comedy lost a quiet giant this month.
Steve Pepoon, the Emmy Award-winning writer whose wit and warmth helped shape some of America’s most beloved shows—including The Simpsons and The Wild Thornberrys—passed away unexpectedly at age 68.
As we reflect on his remarkable career and the laughter he brought to millions, we also celebrate the enduring legacy of the shows he helped create, and the timeless power of a well-told joke.
A Midwestern Start, a Hollywood Dream
Born May 19, 1956, in Kansas City, Missouri, Steve Pepoon’s journey to television stardom began far from the bright lights of Hollywood.
After graduating from Kansas State University in 1978, Pepoon packed his bags and headed west, determined to make his mark as a writer.
His first big break came on the quirky, puppet-filled sitcom ALF—a show that, like much of Pepoon’s work, blended heart and humor in equal measure.
From ALF to Emmy Gold: The Simpsons Era
Pepoon’s career took a defining turn when he joined the writing staff of The Simpsons, the animated juggernaut that would go on to become the longest-running scripted series in American television history.
In the show’s second season, Pepoon penned “Homer vs. Lisa and the 8th Commandment,” a now-classic episode that aired in February 1991.
The episode tackled the moral gray areas of everyday life, as Homer Simpson installs an illegal cable hookup and his daughter Lisa protests, invoking the Eighth Commandment: “Thou shalt not steal.”
Source: letsbepandas / Youtube.
The story’s blend of humor, ethical quandary, and family dynamics struck a chord with viewers and critics alike, earning Pepoon a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Animated Program.
The episode also introduced the world to Troy McClure, the unforgettable character voiced by the late Phil Hartman.
In a 2016 interview, Pepoon reflected on the honor of being chosen for Emmy consideration: “For whatever reason, they chose my episode.”
Beyond Springfield: The Wild Thornberrys and More
Pepoon’s creative reach extended far beyond The Simpsons. He co-created Nickelodeon’s The Wild Thornberrys, an animated series that followed the globe-trotting adventures of a family of wildlife documentarians.
The show was a hit with kids and parents alike, spawning a feature film in 2002 and cementing Pepoon’s reputation as a versatile storyteller.
His credits also include work on It’s Garry Shandling’s Show and Roseanne, two groundbreaking sitcoms that pushed the boundaries of television comedy in the 1980s and 1990s.
Whether writing for aliens, animated families, or offbeat comedians, Pepoon brought a unique blend of heart, intelligence, and irreverence to every project.
A Life Remembered
Steve Pepoon’s passing comes after a two-year battle with cardiac amyloidosis, a rare heart condition.
He died outside his home in Paola, Kansas, on May 3, 2024. He is survived by his wife, Mary Stephenson, his brothers Michael and Bill, sisters-in-law Sonja and Francesca, stepchildren Katie and Nick, and grandchildren Micah, McKenzie, Lily, Audrey, and Dean.
His family, friends, and fans remember him not just for his professional achievements, but for his kindness, humility, and the joy he brought to those around him.
Also read: The beloved voice of “The Simpsons” retires – Why fans are calling for the show to end
The Simpsons: Still Going Strong
Pepoon’s legacy lives on—not just in reruns, but in the ongoing story of The Simpsons itself.
In a landmark announcement last month, Fox revealed that the show has been renewed for four more seasons, bringing its total to a staggering 40 seasons and over 800 episodes.
Fans across the globe rejoiced, with many taking to social media to express their excitement and gratitude for the show’s continued presence in their lives.
Source: Nicktoons / Youtube.
The Simpsons, along with other animated classics like Family Guy, American Dad, and Bob’s Burgers, remains a cornerstone of American pop culture.
As Michael Thorn, President of Fox Television Network, put it, “This new deal celebrates the eternal popularity of these iconic comedies, as well as the enduring, prolific relationship we continue to enjoy with our friends at 20th Television Animation and the brilliant creators… and incredible voices behind these contemporary classics.”
The Enduring Power of Laughter
As we remember Steve Pepoon, let’s also celebrate the power of laughter to heal, connect, and inspire. In a world that often feels divided, a good joke—or a great episode of television—can remind us of our shared humanity.
Read next: TV legend Jean Marsh, star and co-creator of "Upstairs, Downstairs," dies at 90
Did you have a favorite episode of The Simpsons or The Wild Thornberrys? Did Steve Pepoon’s work touch your life in some way? We’d love to hear your memories, thoughts, and tributes in the comments below!
Rest in peace, Steve Pepoon. Thank you for the laughter.
Steve Pepoon, the Emmy Award-winning writer whose wit and warmth helped shape some of America’s most beloved shows—including The Simpsons and The Wild Thornberrys—passed away unexpectedly at age 68.
As we reflect on his remarkable career and the laughter he brought to millions, we also celebrate the enduring legacy of the shows he helped create, and the timeless power of a well-told joke.
A Midwestern Start, a Hollywood Dream
Born May 19, 1956, in Kansas City, Missouri, Steve Pepoon’s journey to television stardom began far from the bright lights of Hollywood.
After graduating from Kansas State University in 1978, Pepoon packed his bags and headed west, determined to make his mark as a writer.
His first big break came on the quirky, puppet-filled sitcom ALF—a show that, like much of Pepoon’s work, blended heart and humor in equal measure.
From ALF to Emmy Gold: The Simpsons Era
Pepoon’s career took a defining turn when he joined the writing staff of The Simpsons, the animated juggernaut that would go on to become the longest-running scripted series in American television history.
Steve Pepoon, the Emmy Award-winning writer best known for his work on The Simpsons, has died unexpectedly at the age of 68, after being treated for a heart condition. Image source: JackTheMakerGuy / Youtube.
In the show’s second season, Pepoon penned “Homer vs. Lisa and the 8th Commandment,” a now-classic episode that aired in February 1991.
The episode tackled the moral gray areas of everyday life, as Homer Simpson installs an illegal cable hookup and his daughter Lisa protests, invoking the Eighth Commandment: “Thou shalt not steal.”
Pepoon wrote the acclaimed episode “Homer Vs. Lisa and the 8th Commandment”, which won a Primetime Emmy and marked the debut of the character Troy McClure. Image source: M!pa / Youtube.
Source: letsbepandas / Youtube.
The story’s blend of humor, ethical quandary, and family dynamics struck a chord with viewers and critics alike, earning Pepoon a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Animated Program.
The episode also introduced the world to Troy McClure, the unforgettable character voiced by the late Phil Hartman.
In a 2016 interview, Pepoon reflected on the honor of being chosen for Emmy consideration: “For whatever reason, they chose my episode.”
Beyond Springfield: The Wild Thornberrys and More
Pepoon’s creative reach extended far beyond The Simpsons. He co-created Nickelodeon’s The Wild Thornberrys, an animated series that followed the globe-trotting adventures of a family of wildlife documentarians.
The show was a hit with kids and parents alike, spawning a feature film in 2002 and cementing Pepoon’s reputation as a versatile storyteller.
His credits also include work on It’s Garry Shandling’s Show and Roseanne, two groundbreaking sitcoms that pushed the boundaries of television comedy in the 1980s and 1990s.
Beyond The Simpsons, he also co-created the popular Nickelodeon cartoon The Wild Thornberrys and wrote for shows such as ALF, It’s Garry Shandling’s Show, and Roseanne. Image source: ALF / Youtube.
Whether writing for aliens, animated families, or offbeat comedians, Pepoon brought a unique blend of heart, intelligence, and irreverence to every project.
A Life Remembered
Steve Pepoon’s passing comes after a two-year battle with cardiac amyloidosis, a rare heart condition.
He died outside his home in Paola, Kansas, on May 3, 2024. He is survived by his wife, Mary Stephenson, his brothers Michael and Bill, sisters-in-law Sonja and Francesca, stepchildren Katie and Nick, and grandchildren Micah, McKenzie, Lily, Audrey, and Dean.
His family, friends, and fans remember him not just for his professional achievements, but for his kindness, humility, and the joy he brought to those around him.
Also read: The beloved voice of “The Simpsons” retires – Why fans are calling for the show to end
The Simpsons: Still Going Strong
Pepoon’s legacy lives on—not just in reruns, but in the ongoing story of The Simpsons itself.
In a landmark announcement last month, Fox revealed that the show has been renewed for four more seasons, bringing its total to a staggering 40 seasons and over 800 episodes.
Fans across the globe rejoiced, with many taking to social media to express their excitement and gratitude for the show’s continued presence in their lives.
Source: Nicktoons / Youtube.
The Simpsons, along with other animated classics like Family Guy, American Dad, and Bob’s Burgers, remains a cornerstone of American pop culture.
As Michael Thorn, President of Fox Television Network, put it, “This new deal celebrates the eternal popularity of these iconic comedies, as well as the enduring, prolific relationship we continue to enjoy with our friends at 20th Television Animation and the brilliant creators… and incredible voices behind these contemporary classics.”
The Enduring Power of Laughter
As we remember Steve Pepoon, let’s also celebrate the power of laughter to heal, connect, and inspire. In a world that often feels divided, a good joke—or a great episode of television—can remind us of our shared humanity.
Read next: TV legend Jean Marsh, star and co-creator of "Upstairs, Downstairs," dies at 90
Did you have a favorite episode of The Simpsons or The Wild Thornberrys? Did Steve Pepoon’s work touch your life in some way? We’d love to hear your memories, thoughts, and tributes in the comments below!
Rest in peace, Steve Pepoon. Thank you for the laughter.
