Thor the Dark World and The Simpsons Writer Payne Passes Away

Don Payne, the longtime Simpsons producer who contributed to both Thor films and Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer, has passed away, according to friends on Twitter. "Great Writer, Sweet Guy, Gone Way Too Soon RIP Don Payne," tweeted longtime Simpsons collaborator Mike Scully, along with the image at right. "A wonderful, beautiful man has passed away. Don Payne, I am lucky to have known you. You are so missed," added actress Kat Dennings, who appears in the Thor films. Jaimie Alexander, who plays Sif in the films, said, "Don Payne. My heart is broken. You were a wonderful funny man who helped change my life and I will always love you. The world is less today. Don, may you rest in peace and may peace and love be with your family. You are in my heart always. #forAsgard I love you." No details are available as to the cause and nature of Payne's passing. Our condolences go out to his family and friends.