Judge rules out age discrimination in lawsuit by ex-Simpsons composer

Former Simpsons composer Alf Clausen, who was fired from the show after 27 years, has had an age discrimination claim tossed out in a US lawsuit.

Variety notes Judge Michael L. Stern ruled that Twentieth Century FOX had a free speech right to choose the composer for their show.

The producers have said in court filings that they decided to terminate Clausen after they became dissatisfied with his work on a hip-hop themed episode. The producers felt that Clausen, who was 75 at the time, was not comfortable with rap or hip-hop music, and they were worried about keeping the show relevant.

They also became concerned that Clausen was farming out much of the work to his son, according to court filings. The show ultimately hired Bleeding Fingers Music, a composer collective that made greater use of synth music, cutting the show’s music costs by 40%.

But Clausen has also sued for disability discrimination, arguing that he was fired in part due to his Parkinson’s diagnosis.

The judge has allowed him to proceed with that claim.

Clausen will also be able to pursue several other claims, including wrongful discharge, retaliation and unfair business practices.