'The Simpsons' Music Editor Chris Ledesma Passes At 64

Chris Ledesma

CHRIS LEDESMA, a longtime music editor on “The Simpsons,” has died at 64.

News of his death was announced on SUNDAY night with a post-credits tribute card after “The Simpsons” aired. The Simpsons were shown sitting down as BART, MAGGIE and LISA played instruments as an animated LEDESMA was shown conducted with a baton.

LEDESMA had been with the show since its first season in 1989, working on more than 700 episodes and 30 seasons until he left the series last year.

LEDESMA was playing piano by the age of three, then took trumpet lessons. His first music editing gig was on a student film at CALARTS, which prompted him to pursue it as his career. LEDESMA also worked as a tour guide for UNIVERSAL STUDIOS HOLLYWOOD, where he witnessed films being scored.

With over 138 credits to his name, LEDESMA worked on TV movies and series including “Teen Angel” and “Miracle In The Woods.” He also worked as a music editor for “Robin Hood: Men In Tights.”

He earned two EMMY nominations for his work: in outstanding individual achievement in sound editing for a miniseries or a special on “Gypsy,” and outstanding sound editing for a miniseries or a special for “War and Remembrance.”

Said show writer CAROLYN OMINE, “CHRIS LEDESMA was a sweet man who loved his job and was really, really good at it. We miss him.”

JAKE SCHAEFER, who replaced him as the show's music editor, tweeted, “CHRIS LEDESMA’s passion for music and for 'TheSimpsons' was an inspiration. I’m grateful for the time I got to spend with him this year. He was a great mentor and a genuine person. My heart goes out to his family.”

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