He faced execution for failure to perform. But Benjy, the gay bull of Ireland, has been saved following a worldwide appeal backed by "The Simpsons" co-creator Sam Simon.

Ireland's Animal Rights Action Network said Tuesday that Simon is paying for Benjy's transportation to an animal sanctuary in England. Simon, who is battling colon cancer, has been giving away much of the fortune from his television career and is a leading donor to animal welfare causes.

Benjy, a Charlerois bull, failed this year to impregnate any heifers at a County Mayo farm in western Ireland. Veterinarians determined he was fertile, but was more attracted to the bull that replaced him.

Activists last week launched a social media campaign seeking 5,000 pounds ($7,825) to save Benjy.