Sam Simon (1955–2015)

Cartoonist, screenwriter, showrunner

What is Sam Simon (1955–2015) known for?

Samuel Michael Simon, born June 6, 1955 in Los Angeles, California, is best known as a television producer and for his co-development of the popular series The Simpsons. Simon grew up in Beverly Hills and Malibu, and attended Beverly Hills High School, where he demonstrated his creative flair as a cartoonist for the school newspaper. Known for his humor and talent, he later graduated from Stanford University in 1977, where he continued expressing his artistry through newspaper cartooning.

Following his passion, Simon began his professional journey as a storyboard artist at Filmation Studios. His talent got recognized when a spec script he wrote for the sitcom Taxi was produced, leading to his rise as the series' showrunner. Throughout his career, he left his mark on multiple television programs, including Cheers and It's Garry Shandling's Show, in various roles as a producer, writer, and director.

Not limiting himself to television, Simon explored other fields in his later years. He managed boxer Lamon Brewster, guiding him to the World Boxing Organization Heavyweight Championship in 2004, and took part in the World Series of Poker, finishing in the money six times. A frequent guest on Howard Stern's radio shows, Simon's diverse interests led CBS writer Daniel Schorn to label him as a "Renaissance man".

Beyond his professional endeavors, Simon was an active philanthropist and animal rights activist. He founded the Sam Simon Foundation to offer free veterinary services to pets in low-income neighborhoods and to rescue and train shelter dogs. In addition, he funded the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society vessel, MY Sam Simon. Despite his diagnosis of terminal colorectal cancer in 2012, Simon continued his charitable work, leaving his $100 million estate to various charities upon his passing on March 8, 2015.