Shawn Simpson, affectionately known as 'Simmer,' passed away on Wednesday at the age of 56. A celebrated figure in Ottawa's sports media and former NHL player, Simpson's death has sent shockwaves through the community.
The announcement came from Brent Wallace during the 'Coming In Hot' podcast, where Simpson had previously co-hosted. Wallace shared the sorrowful news, mentioning how Simpson was candid about his mental health challenges. “I'm not sure really what to say as I've tried to figure out what the right words were,” he expressed. “He was very open about dealing with his battles with mental health and dealing with some other stuff. We worked to try to get him some help. In the end, we weren't successful.”
Born in Ottawa, Simpson's hockey career began early. He was drafted as a goaltender by the Washington Capitals in 1986 and played with the AHL’s Baltimore Skipjacks. He was also part of the 1987 World Junior Championships team representing Canada. His broadcast career took off when he joined TSN 1200, starting with the station’s launch in 2013 and lasting until his termination earlier this year due to cutbacks at Bell Media.
Colleagues from TSN and beyond have expressed their grief and shared remembrances. Ian Mendes, now the Ottawa Senators’ VP of communications, commented on X about their time working together: “We made radio magic each day, and coming to work together was a pleasure — not a chore.” Mendes poignantly noted Simpson's struggles with mental health were only fully comprehended by him two years ago. “You are a beautiful, kind soul who didn’t deserve the weight you carried. Nobody does,” he wrote.
Simpson's honesty about his mental health made him relatable to many. John Rodenburg, his program director at TSN 1200, reflected on Simpson's unique ability to connect with listeners. “He had constant mental health struggles, and he was open and honest about it,” Rodenburg said. “I think that's what made him so popular on the radio. He was himself, good and bad, and when he spoke about his struggles with mental health, it really spoke to a lot of people.”
Longtime friends, including TSN's James Duthie, also shared their tributes. Duthie reminisced about their history together, saying, “Was proud to watch him get drafted… play pro… and then become a constant hockey voice on Ottawa radio.” His passion for hockey and community engagement reflected deeply on his relationships.
Simpson's early life was marked by instability, which he discussed candidly. Having been adopted and experiencing challenges throughout his upbringing, he spoke with Postmedia’s Tim Baines about the turbulence of his childhood. “It was a rollercoaster of instability and uncertainty,” he had stated, discussing the frequent changes of homes before age 16.
After his brief playing career, Simpson transitioned smoothly to broadcasting, where he thrived. His charisma and insights made him not only well-known but beloved by the audience. He relished his roles on various shows, such as the 'Morning' and 'Drive' segments, bringing energy and humor with every broadcast.
Tributes have poured in from various sports organizations, including the Ottawa Senators, who honored his legacy as both a passionate supporter of the sport and a personal being. “Our hearts go out to his family and friends, as well as his fans whose lives he touched throughout his hockey and media career,” the team stated, highlighting the loss felt by the community.
Former NHL player Matthew Barnaby fondly remembered Simpson and emphasized the necessity of supporting those struggling with mental health, reflecting his friend’s battles. He stated, “He absolutely loved talking hockey and was so fun to be around.”
Simpson’s legacy lies not just within the sphere of hockey but also as someone who was candid about mental health, impacting countless individuals across Ottawa and beyond. His colleagues emphasized how his openness during shows such as Bell's 'Let's Talk Day' created lasting conversations about mental health with their audience.
“We had some of the best shows we’ve ever done,” Rodenburg remarked. He noted how Simpson's experiences inspired many, and they received many heartfelt responses from listeners, reinforcing the idea of connection and support.
Even as his broadcasting career faced challenges, Simpson maintained his passion for the sport and community engagement. Just before his death, he remained involved as a podcaster and continued to resonate with his fans.
While the precise cause of his death remains undisclosed, it highlights the often unspoken struggles associated with mental health. Simpson’s story serves as both cautionary and inspiring, reminding audiences of the importance of dialogue surrounding such issues.
With the passing of Shawn Simpson, the Ottawa community has lost not just a broadcaster or player but someone who made them feel heard, seen, and valued. His legacy will undoubtedly live on through the indelible mark he left on the hearts and minds of many.