Television producer and philanthropist Sam Simon passed away at his home in the Pacific Palisades surrounded by family and friends Sunday evening after a long battle with colon cancer. The nine-time Emmy Award-winning writer and producer helped create The Simpsons, one of the most successful television shows in history.
“He was a genius and a great humanitarian in ways public and private. I personally owe him more than can be repaid, but I will do my best to help every animal I can in his memory,” Simpsons executive producer Al Jean said in a statement.
Simon, who left the show in 1993, announced that he’d be donating $100 million to charity after being diagnosed with terminal colon cancer in 2013. An avid animal rights activist, the majority of Simon’s donation is expected to help animal organizations.
“I think that my passion for the animals and against animal abuse is based on the knowledge that these creatures who feel and think can’t speak for themselves and they’re dependent on us for that,” Simon said in an interview with NBC last year.
After learning of his death, Simon’s charity, The Sam Simon Foundation, told TMZ, “For those of us who knew him, his voice will forever echo in our minds; his sense of humor will continue to make us laugh; and his compassion and generosity will continue to impact our lives.”
Adding, “Sam, you will be missed by many, but there is a particular sadness among our clinic staff. We have been together for so long, and your absence will forever leave a void in our lives.”
Simon was 59.
