'Simpsons' co-creator Sam Simon dies


One of the creators of "The Simpsons" has lost his battle with cancer. Sam Simon, who also wrote for "Taxi," "Cheers and "It's Gary Shandling's Show" died Sunday industry magazine Variety reported.

It was confirmed by Simon's co-writer Al Jean on Jean's Twitter page.

Simon had been diagnosed with terminal colon cancer in February 2013, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

Simon, the entertainment site said, brought together "The Simpsons" writing team of Jean and Conan O'Brien among others, along with Simon and the other developers Matt Groening, James L. Brooks and himself.

Simon left the show in 1993 after four seasons, but was still listed as executive producer on every episode.

Last year, Simon gave away his $100 million fortune to charity, with the majority of it going to the Sam Simon Foundation. His foundation helped protect the well-being of dogs, CBS News reported.

The Sam Simon Foundation also took to its Twitter page to announce and remember his passing.

He also bought zoos and circuses to free animals, Variety reported.

And because of Simon's love of animals, Jean suggested remembering his friend by doing something positive for the next animal fans came across.

He also started the Feeding Families program that ensured 400 families got the meals they need every day.

Huffington Post quoted Simon that the help he provides to both animals and people in need was "a form of therapy" for him.

Simon was 59.