Rick and Morty producer Mike Mendel has died at the age of 54. Adult Swim, the US television network which has broadcast Rick and Morty since it ‘s 2013 release, issued a statement on Twitter saying: “All of us at Adult Swim are devastated by the untimely passing of Rick and Morty producer Mike Mendel. He 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.”
Mike also helped to create 207 episodes of “The Simpsons” and won three Emmys for his work.
The animation veteran then went on to produce 22 episodes of “Rick and Morty,” winning a fourth Emmy in 2018.
Rick and Morty co-creator Justin Roiland, 39, broke the news of Mike Mendel’s death on Twitter on Monday evening.
Posting to his 746,000 followers, the voice actor, writer, producer and director said: “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.”
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How did Mike Mendel die? What is the cause of death?
There has been no official cause of death released as the time of writing.
He is survived by his wife, the Emmy-winning casting director Juel Bestrop, and their son and daughter.
Mike also worked as a production assistant on the films Broadcast News and Big, and as an associate producer on Jerry Maguire.
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Fans who are awaiting the release of season four of sci-fi comedy Rick and Morty took to Twitter to express their sadness at Mike’s death.
One wrote: “RIP Mike Mendel, you brought so much joy to my life.”
Another said: “So sorry for the loss of #MikeMendel who produced some of the best animation. I’m so sorry for you, his family, friends, and colleagues are going through.”
And a third wrote: “The animation industry took a big loss today, rest in peace Mike Mendel”
Rick and Morty season four is due to be released in November this year.
The Adult Swim TV show has adopted a cult following with zany characters like Pickle Rick, Mr Poopybutthole and Meeseeks.
It features teenager Morty and his mad scientist grandfather Rick, who with the use of a spaceship and portal gun travel across dimensions.
The duo encounters aliens, alternate realities and often find themselves involved in bizarre but hilarious situations.