Mike Reiss

Biography

Mike Reiss is an accomplished American television writer, producer, and author best known for his work on The Simpsons, the longest-running American sitcom and animated series in history. With a career spanning over four decades, Reiss has been instrumental in shaping the humor and voice of American animation. 

Known for his wit, storytelling, and creative contributions, Reiss has also written books, created his shows, and worked on numerous films. This article provides an in-depth look into Reiss’s life, career, and achievements.

Television Career

After graduating from Harvard, Reiss began his career as a television writer in the early 1980s. Alongside Al Jean, he wrote for several TV shows, including The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson and Alf, before landing a role on The Simpsons in 1989.

The Simpsons (1989–Present)

Reiss’s most notable contribution to television is his work on The Simpsons, which he joined at the beginning of its run in 1989. He has worked in various capacities on the show, including as a writer, producer, and showrunner, often alongside Al Jean. 

Reiss and Jean served as showrunners during the show’s third and fourth seasons, periods widely considered to be some of the show's most iconic and influential years. Together, they helped to develop and refine the humor, style, and characters that made The Simpsons a cultural phenomenon.

Even after stepping down as showrunner, Reiss continued to contribute to the series as a writer and producer, working on episodes and shaping many of its most memorable storylines. His involvement with The Simpsons also extended to The Simpsons Movie (2007), where he contributed as a writer, helping bring the beloved show to the big screen.

Movie Career

In addition to his television work, Reiss has made significant contributions to animated films as a writer and consultant. Some of his most notable movie projects include:

The Simpsons Movie (2007) - As part of the writing team for The Simpsons Movie, Reiss helped adapt the popular television series for the big screen. The film was a commercial success, earning over $500 million worldwide and resonating with fans for its humor and storyline.

Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs (2009) - Reiss contributed as a writer on this third installment of the Ice Age franchise. The film, produced by Blue Sky Studios, was a global hit, grossing nearly $900 million worldwide. His contribution added a humorous and adventurous element to the beloved family franchise.

Despicable Me (2010) and Minions (2015) - Reiss was a consultant for Despicable Me and Minions, both of which became hugely successful and helped launch a new wave of popular animated films. His contributions helped shape the unique humor and style that defined these movies.

Reiss's work in animated films has allowed him to reach a broader audience, showcasing his talent for crafting stories that appeal to children and adults.

Books and Other Writing

Mike Reiss has also written several books that reflect his unique comedic voice. His children’s books, such as How Murray Saved Christmas, offer funny and heartwarming stories that have been well-received by young readers. How Murray Saved Christmas was even adapted into an animated holiday special by NBC.

In 2018, Reiss published Springfield Confidential: Jokes, Secrets, and Outright Lies from a Lifetime Writing for The Simpsons, a memoir and behind-the-scenes look at his time working on The Simpsons. The book is filled with anecdotes, insights, and humorous reflections on the show and Reiss’s career in the entertainment industry. It received praise for its humor and candid storytelling, providing fans with a rare glimpse into the creation and evolution of The Simpsons.