This article is about the Hollywood film producer. For the comic book artist, see Don Simpson (cartoonist). Donald Clarence Don Simpson (October 29, 1943 â January 19, 1996) was an American film producer, screenwriter, and actor. Simpson, along with his producing partner Jerry Bruckheimer, produced such hit films as Flashdance (1983), Beverly Hills Cop (1984), Top Gun (1986), and The Rock (1996). Their films would go on to earn $3 billion worldwide.