Former TSN 1200 broadcaster, hockey player Shawn Simpson dies at 56

Former TSN 1200 broadcaster and hockey player Shawn "Simmer" Simpson has died at 56. CTV's Matt Skube reports.

Former hockey player, NHL executive and TSN 1200 broadcaster Shawn Simpson has passed away at the age of 56.

TSN’s John Rodenburg shared the news of Simpson’s passing on TSN 1200 Thursday morning, saying Simpson’s death “comes as a shock” to staff, listeners and the community.

“We know that when you work on the radio, especially if you are a regular listener, you’re always considered to be family,” Rodenburg said.

“That’s what people love about radio, that’s what those of us who work in radio love about it is that we are considered family by you. When you lose a member of your family, it shocks, especially when it comes as it has.”

Rodenburg said on social media, “Simmer was one of a kind, truly.”

“He was energetic, funny, opinionated and authentic, warts and all. We were all better for having spent some time with him and I hope that he finds himself in a better place and at peace.”

The Ottawa native played for the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds and Oshawa Generals in the Ontario Hockey League and was drafted by the Washington Capitals in the third round of the 1986 NHL Entry Draft. Simpson represented Canada at the 1987 World Junior Hockey Championship.

Simpson played with the Baltimore Skipjacks of the American Hockey League before working in the front office for the Washington Capitals and Toronto Maple Leafs.

Simpson started working for TSN 1200 in January 2012 and worked on the station until 2023.

Tributes were posted on social media to Simpson and expressing condolences to his family and friends.

“The Ottawa Senators were deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Shawn Simpson, lionhearted member of the Sens media landscape and proud member of the Ottawa community,” the Senators said on X.

“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 Washington Capitals issued a statement extending condolences to Simpson’s family, friends and colleagues.

“The Washington Capitals are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Shawn Simpson,” the Capitals said. “Drafted by the Capitals in 1986, Shawn spent many years in our organization as a player, broadcaster, scout and director of hockey operations.”

Mayor Mark Sutcliffe called the death of Simpson, “a tragic loss.”

“I’m very sad to hear about the passing of my former radio colleague Shawn Simpson,” Sutcliffe said in a statement on social media.

“My deepest condolences to his family, his friends, and all the people in our community who were touched by him.”

TSN’s James Duthie said, “Devastated to hear of the passing of Shawn Simpson. Was proud to watch him get drafted…play pro…and then become a constant hockey voice on Ottawa radio.”

The Ottawa Redblacks, Ottawa 67’s and the Ottawa Sports and Entertainment Group issued a statement.

“’Simmer’ approached every day covering sports in Ottawa with unmatched passion, kindness, and his trademark wit,” the statement said. “He was a pillar of our community, making a tremendous impact both through his time in the media, as well as his courageous openness and mental health advocacy. We extend our most heartfelt sympathies to his family, friends, and everyone who loved to listen to him talk sports.”

TSN Hockey Insider Chris Johnston said on social media, “It’s heartbreaking to learn of Shawn Simpson’s passing. He’s gone far too soon. My thoughts are with his family, friends and my media colleagues in Ottawa. RIP Simmer.”

Former NHL player Matthew Barnaby said Simpson “was a great guy.”

“A man who absolutely loved talking hockey! We weren’t close but every time I saw him, he was so fun to be around and we exchanged so many DMs about players and the game. I know he struggled. if you know someone struggling reach out and help.”