The co-creator of "The Simpsons", philanthropist Sam Simon passed away at the age of 59.
Sam Simon, 59, who developed the animated sitcom "The Simpsons," along with Matt Groening and James L. Brooks, has died. Sam Simon Foundation announced the sad news on Monday, March 9.
According to RollingStone, Simon past away at his home in Los Angeles on Sunday after his long battle with colorectal cancer. Simon was diagnosed with advanced colon cancer back in 2011.
Simon worked as a newspaper cartoonist and became a storyboard artist at Filmation Studios after graduating. After his stint writing for "Cheers," "Taxi," and "The Tracey Ullman Show," Simon was the executive producer and show runner for "The Simpsons" first and second seasons and was the creative supervisor for the first four seasons.
According to HollwoodReporter, "Simpsons" executive producer, Al Jean said in a statement that he personally owed him more than can be repaid; he said of Simon that he was a genius and also a great humanitarian in ways public and private. Jean further added that he will do his best to help every animal he can in his memory.
Jean expressed his grief on Twitter in a series of tweets. Jean told Variety that he learned every about animation writing and even more about life from Sam Simon.
The Sam Simon Foundation gives stray and abandoned dogs a new lease on life, actually.
According to TheSacramentoBee, Sam Simon Foundation not only rescues dogs from animal shelters but also trains them to assist the disabled. Simon even donated to Mercy for Animals, the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society, and the Ethical Treatment of Animals among other organizations. Simon also funded a Los Angeles food bank.
Simon played a significant role as creative supervisor to shape "The Simpsons" into the long-running, much beloved series that it is today.
Simon expressed his desire to spend all his money charitable causes, in an interview in 2013.
He declared he was not sad as he battled an illness that his doctors said might claim him within months. Sam Simon cancer battle did not seem to upset him, "I'm happy. I don't feel angry and bitter," he said. Simon noted he wanted to do whatever he can to survive.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to Sam Simon's family and friends.
