Alan Decker was a re-recording mixer who worked on many popular television shows, including Outlander, Homeland, and Grimm. He passed away in December 2020 at the age of 59. His death was a shock to the fans and the industry, as he was a respected and talented professional who contributed to the sound quality and atmosphere of many beloved shows. In this article, we will explore his life, career, achievements, and the cause of his death.
Early Life and Career
Alan Decker was born on September 14, 1961. He started his career in the sound department in 1995, working on various projects such as documentaries, TV movies, and short films. He soon established himself as a skilled and versatile re-recording mixer, who could handle different genres and formats. He was nominated for six Emmy Awards, winning two for his work on Avalanche: The White Death as the sound editor and sound mixer of the project. He also won a Cinema Audio Society Award for his sound mixing work on Homeland in 2013. He was nominated for five more CAS Awards for his work on Outlander, Grimm, and The Twilight Zone.
Outlander and Other Works
Alan Decker was the re-recording mixer of Outlander from the very first episode of the show, titled Sassenach, that aired in 2014. He worked on 67 episodes of the show, until the fifth season finale. He was responsible for creating the immersive and realistic sound effects and dialogue that enhanced the historical and romantic drama of the show. He also collaborated with the composer Bear McCreary to mix the music and the score of the show. He received four CAS Award nominations for his work on Outlander, as well as praise from the fans and the critics.
Apart from Outlander, Alan Decker also worked on many other renowned television shows, such as Homeland, Grimm, Chicago P.D., Suits, The Simpsons, Psych, and many more. He was known for his positive and encouraging nature, as well as his mentorship to many aspiring sound technicians. He was also a member of the Motion Picture Sound Editors and the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences. The last production he worked on prior to his death was Your Honor, a legal drama starring Bryan Cranston.
Cause of Death and Legacy
Alan Decker died in December 2020 in Pasadena, California. The exact cause or nature of his death has not yet been disclosed. Following his death, Cinema Audio Society released a memorial that acknowledged Decker’s influence and significance in the industry and extended their condolences to Alan’s family, friends, and colleagues. “Alan was a mentor to many and a strong figure in the sound community known for his positive and encouraging nature,” the memorial reads. “Al was a really sweet guy and will be missed,” said CAS Board member David Bondelevitch in the memorial.
The sixth season premiere of Outlander, which aired on March 6, 2022, also paid tribute to Alan Decker at the end of the episode, with a title card that read “In Memory of Alan Decker.” The show’s executive producer Maril Davis tweeted that the tribute was “a small way to honor our friend and colleague who passed away last year. He was a huge part of our Outlander family and we miss him terribly.” The show’s composer Bear McCreary also tweeted that Decker was “a brilliant mixer, a kind soul, and a dear friend. I will always cherish our collaboration on Outlander and many other projects.”
Alan Decker was a sound master who left behind a legacy of excellence and creativity. He will be remembered and missed by his family, friends, colleagues, and fans. His work will continue to inspire and entertain generations of viewers. Rest in peace, Alan Decker.
