ONE OF THE co-creators of The Simpsons Sam Simon has passed away at the age of 59.
The nine time Emmy winner passed away in Los Angeles on Sunday after a long battle with colon cancer. He was diagnosed in late 2012.
Simon was an animal rights advocate and it’s reported that he died surrounded by his family and his dog.
He largely retired from the entertainment business in his 30s and set up the Sam Simon Foundation, which rescues dogs and helps prolong the lives of pets in medical need.
The foundation confirmed the news on Facebook today saying, “It is with much sadness that we must let you know that Sam Simon has passed over.”
The Irish bull Benjy was saved by Sam when he stepped in before Benjy was sent to be slaughtered.
Benjy faced execution after failing to impregnate any heifers at a Mayo farm. He was known as the gay bull of Ireland.
Animal Rights Action Network, ARAN, released a statement saying they are hurt and saddened at the news. ARAN’s John Carmody said:
The lives of many rescued and abused animals are alive and well thanks to Mr. Simon’s goodwill.
“We are sorry that the animals have lost a true living angel, who has done nothing but good during his time in this world — may he look down on all the animals he’s helped save and the ones that need saving, from where he is right now.”
Simon had previously stated that he would be leaving his nearly $100 million fortune to his various charities.
People are also responding to the sad news on Twitter:
According to The Hollywood Reporter- Simon left The Simpsons in 1993 but remained in the credits as an executive producer and still earned money from the show thanks to a home video sales deal.
Simon also worked as a producer for shows including The Tracey Ullman Show, The George Carlin Show, Cheers, Taxi and The George Carlin Show.
First posted at 8.30pm
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