Douglas McGrath, a celebrated writer, actor and director, passed away abruptly on November 3, 2022 at the age of 64. Some of his most famous work includes being Tony-nominated for “Beautiful: The Carole King Musical” and an Oscar nomination for writing the screenplay to “Bullets Over Broadway” which he co-authored with Woody Allen.

McGrath passed away from a heart attack in his Manhattan office, as announced by the producers of his Off-Broadway show, “Everything’s Fine.” John Lithgow directed the solo autobiographical performance at the Daryl Roth Theatre.

“The company of ‘Everything’s Fine’ was honored to have presented his solo autobiographical show,” the producers stated. “Everyone who worked with him over the last three months of production was struck by his grace, charm, and droll sense of humor, and sends deepest condolences to his family.”

McGrath’s career took off in 1980 when he joined the cast of “Saturday Night Live.” He eventually transitioned to stage and starred in Broadway productions like “Beautiful: The Carole King Musical” and other plays like “Checkers” and “The Age of Innocence.” Furthermore, he has acted in, written, and directed films including “Emma” with Gwyneth Paltrow, “Nicholas Nickleby” starring Charlie Hunnam, and “Infamous” featuring Toby Jones.

McGrath not only earned multiple prestigious awards but he was also nominated for two Emmy Awards because of his work directing HBO documentaries: “His Way” and “Becoming Mike Nichols.”

Once news of his passing spread, those who had worked with him throughout his career took to social media to write tributes.

“Doug was smart, funny, talented, kind, a great friend, and a wonderful storyteller who leaves a legacy of love and laughter,” King posted on Instagram.

“We’ve lost Doug McGrath. Words can’t express our grief and shock,” John Lithgow wrote on Twitter.

“A heartbreaking loss. Douglas was the person you’d most like to have dinner with: charming, kind, funny, a born raconteur. My love to Jane & Henry, & to all those who loved & admired him. I include myself in that vast number,” Singer Roseanne Cash tweeted.

“DG mourns the loss of playwright/librettist/screenwriter Douglas McGrath. A member of the Guild since 2014, he was perhaps best known in theatre as the book writer of the award-winning ‘Beautiful: The Carole King Musical.’ May his memory be a blessing,” The Dramatists Guild also paid tribute.

McGrath is survived by his wife, Jane Read Martin, and his son, Henry McGrath.