Longtime running music editor for The Simpsons died at age 64, according to Deadline. Chris Ledesma’s (Blast from the Past, Bette) death was announced in Sunday’s episode of The Simpsons with a title tribute that read “In loving memory of Chris Ledesma.” The tribute also featured an animated version of Ledesma sitting with the Simpsons, as he holds a conductor’s baton showcasing his career and life.
According to Deadline, Ledesma had worked on every episode with Springfield’s most beloved family since 1989. This was a 33-year run that ended when he stepped down in May 2022, almost a year after he showcased his milestone with the series on Twitter.
Below is Ledesma’s ‘’significant milestone’’ post on Twitter back in 2021.
Ledesma had been in the industry for half his life and has left many fond memories. Ledesma’s friends and colleagues from the series took to Twitter to share their memories of him.
‘’We will all miss Chris Ledesma so very much. A Terrific and wonderful guy who was terrific and wonderful at his job. A solid musician and music editor. Great conductor too. A real loss for all..’’ posted Simpsons producer David Silverman (Monsters, Inc.).
Another Simpsons producer Ai Jean (The Critic) shared, ‘’ A wonderful, hard working, very talented man who will be missed by all he knew.’’
Co-executive producer Carolyn Omine (Get a Job) shared that, ‘’ Chris Ledesma was a sweet man who loved his job and was really, really good at it. We miss him.’’
Animator Matthew Schofield (The Iron Giant) wrote, ”I was shocked and saddened to learn of Chris Ledesma’s recent passing. He very kindly arranged for me to sit in on the scoring session for my episode ‘’Black Eyed, Please’’. A wonderful guy who genuinely loved his job. RIP Chris’’