Upon learning of the Emmy-winning producer's death, 'Rick and Morty' co-creator Justin Roiland turns to Twitter to express his heartbreak and devastation over the loss.
- September 25, 2019
AceShowbiz - Emmy-winning producer J. Michael Mendel has died aged 54.
The passing of the producer of "The Simpsons" and "Rick and Morty" was confirmed in a statement by a representative for U.S. TV network Cartoon Network's late-night programming block Adult Swim.
"All of us at Adult Swim are devastated by the untimely passing of Mike Mendel," they commented. "Mike was the heart of the Rick and Morty production family, his fantastic talent and wit will be sorely missed. Mike was a universally respected Emmy-winning producer with over 25 years in the industry, who guided and supported a generation of artists, writers and creators and his absence will be felt by the entire community."
"Our deepest condolences go out to his family, friends and colleagues during this difficult time."
In response to the sad news, "Rick and Morty" co-creator Justin Roiland added on Twitter: "My friend, partner, and line producer Mike Mendel passed away. I am devastated. My heart breaks for his family. I don't know what I'm going to do without you by my side Mike. I'm destroyed."
Mendel worked on "The Simpsons" since 1989 - first as an associate producer, then co-producer, before producing 117 episodes between 1994 and 2015. He also worked on "Rick and Morty" for four years, beginning in 2013.
He is survived by his wife, fellow Emmy winner and casting director Juel Bestrop.
