The Simpsons co-creator Sam Simon dies

Sam Simon, the comedy writer and producer who helped develop The Simpsons has died, aged 59.

He passed away peacefully at his home in Los Angeles, with his family, loved ones and his dog by his bedside yesterday, it was revealed.

Mr Simon made millions after leaving the show in 1993 and then donated his riches to charity.

He was diagnosed in February 2013 with terminal colon cancer.

After stints writing for Taxi, Cheers and The Tracey Ullman Show, Simon helped launch The Simpsons in 1989.

He left the series after its fourth season under a deal that rewarded him with ongoing royalties from the show, which remains in production.

He established the Sam Simon Foundation, which rescues dogs from animal shelters and trains them to assist the disabled.

He also funded a Los Angeles food bank.

A life-long vegan, he is also known for

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.@thesimpsons #everysimpsonsever If you would like to honor Sam's memory, do something nice for the next animal you meet. An enormous loss.

— Al Jean (@AlJean) March 9, 2015

"The lives of many rescued and abused animals are alive and well thanks to Mr. Simon’s goodwill," says ARAN’s John Carmody.

"An Irish bull named Benjy, who became an international icon for animal and gay rights, was one of the most recent recipients of Sam’s generosity and compassion when he stepped in to save the life of the bull who was being sent to slaughter.

"We are sorry that the animals have lost a true living angel, who has done nothing but good during his time in this world — may he look down on all the animals he’s helped save and the ones that need saving, from where he is right now.

"We miss you, and we love you Sam."