Simpsons co-creator who rescued ‘gay’ bull dies aged 59
The Simpsons co-creator Sam Simon, who paid to save a bull suspected of being gay from slaughter last year, has died aged 59.
SimonĀ won seven Emmys as writer, director and executive producer of the Simpsons, which first aired in 1989.
It was confirmed on Monday by Simon’s agent that he had died.
After his diagnosis with colon cancer, Simon said he wanted to donate all of his fortune to charity. Some years he made $20 million (Ā£13 million) from the Simpsons after striking a deal which meant, despite leaving the show, he would have a share in all ongoing earnings.
He advocated for animal rights, among Ā other causes, and in 2002 founded the Sam Simon Foundation which was devoted to rescuing dogs from shelters, and training them to help the disabled.
A farmer in Ireland saidĀ last yearĀ that he would send Benjy ā who he had purchased as a breeding bull – to the slaughterhouse for showing more interest in other bulls than with cows.
A campaign to rescue him from the fate attracted some support online ā though some were critical of spending money rehoming a bull instead of putting it towards human LGBT issues.
However, Simon ā a renowned philanthropistĀ whoĀ gaveĀ away āmostā of hisĀ money after being diagnosed with theĀ terminal illness ā stumped up the full Ā£5,000 cost of the fee to move BenjyĀ to the Hillside Animal Sanctuary in Norwich.
It was predicted that Benjy might not be so keen to arrive at his new home though āĀ the first order of business was his castration.
FarmerĀ John Watson said previously: āHeāll be castrated. I know they say Benjyās gay, but we wonāt be taking any chances.
āAny animals that come here are neutered because we want to rescue animals in need, not breed them and fill up the sanctuary.ā
