Dr. Morton Shulman politician, businessman, broadcaster, columnist, chief coroner, and physician

On my walk at Pardes Shalom Cemetery in Vaughan, Ontario, I discovered the grave of the unforgettable Dr. Morton Shulman—Ontario’s former Chief Coroner, Member of Provincial Parliament, outspoken broadcaster, and savvy business investor.

Born and raised in Toronto, Dr. Shulman began his medical career with a general practice on Roncesvalles Avenue. He quickly rose to prominence as Chief Coroner of Ontario, where he wasn’t afraid to shake things up. His tenure was marked by bold reforms—including mandatory lifejackets on small boats, enhanced car safety regulations, and the introduction of the breathalyzer in Ontario.

However, when the Progressive Conservative government abruptly relieved him of his duties, Shulman got the last word—by running for office as a New Democrat and winning the High Park seat, unseating the very party that dismissed him.

MPP High Park-Date of Service October 17, 1967 (general election) – September 17, 1975.

Never one to stay quiet, Shulman went on to host the provocative and wildly entertaining talk show The Shulman Fileon CITY-TV from 1977 to 1983. The program became famous for its no-holds-barred interviews, sensational topics, and Shulman’s fierce, often outrageous, opinions.

Dr. Morton Shulman’s life was anything but conventional—whether practicing medicine, passing laws, or confronting guests on television, he made an impact wherever he went.

Dr. Morton Shulman died in Toronto on August 18, 2000. He was 75.

1925-2000