According to his representative, fitness guru Richard Simmons, known for his unrelenting positivity, has died at the age of 76.
Simmons, who had just celebrated his 76th birthday on Friday, was found dead at his home by the Los Angeles Police Department, responding to a 911 call from his housekeeper. Police sources indicate that Simmons died of natural causes, with no foul play suspected.
Just three months ago, Simmons alarmed his fans with a Facebook post where he wrote, “I have some news to tell you. Please don’t be sad. I am… dying. Oh, I can see your faces now. The truth is we all are dying. Every day we live we are getting closer to our death.” He later clarified that the message was meant to encourage everyone to “embrace every day that we have.”
Simmons had been out of the public eye recently, although earlier this year, there were reports of a biopic being made about him. He dismissed these reports, stating, “Don’t believe everything you read. I no longer have a manager, and I no longer have a publicist. I just try to live a quiet life and be peaceful.”
A prolific social media user, Simmons posted about his birthday on Facebook a day before his death, writing, “Thank you… I never got so many messages about my birthday in my life! I am sitting here writing emails. Have a most beautiful rest of your Friday.”
In March, Simmons revealed that he had had skin cancer removed from his face but was now doing well. He urged his fans to get regular check-ups, saying, “I know some of you reading this have had cancer or have known someone in your life who has had cancer. Promise me you will see your doctor and get a complete check-up.”
Born Milton Teagle Simmons in New Orleans on July 12, 1948, he adopted the name Richard while growing up. Simmons often talked about his struggles with weight as a child, which led to his weight loss journey and career in fitness starting in the 1970s and ’80s. His first venture into weight loss was the opening of his gym, Slimmons, in Beverly Hills, California.
He released his first book, “Never Say Diet,” in 1980, the first of 12 he would publish in his career. Simmons’ fitness videos, especially the “Sweatin’ to the Oldies” series, became immensely popular during the 1980s’ fitness craze, which included aerobics and Jazzercise.
Simmons made regular TV appearances, including on talk shows like “The Late Show with David Letterman” and “The Rosie O’Donnell Show.” He also had a regular role on the soap opera “General Hospital” and made guest appearances on shows such as “Arrested Development” and “The Larry Sanders Show.” He hosted his own talk and fitness show, “The Richard Simmons Show,” from 1980 to 1984, which won four Daytime Emmy Awards.
Richard Simmons’ legacy as a beloved and influential fitness personality endures through his numerous books, videos, and television appearances, inspiring millions to pursue healthier lifestyles.
