Legendary fitness guru Richard Simmons has passed away at the age of 76, just one day after celebrating his birthday. The news, which has shocked fans and fitness enthusiasts worldwide, marks the end of an era for a man who dedicated his life to promoting health and fitness.
A Tragic Discovery
On Saturday morning, Simmons’ housekeeper found him unresponsive at his Los Angeles home and immediately contacted the police. Authorities arrived just before 10 a.m. and pronounced Simmons dead at the scene. The cause of death has not yet been disclosed, leaving fans and the public in a state of shock and mourning.
A Heartfelt Farewell
Just a day before his untimely demise, Simmons took to social media to express his gratitude to fans who wished him a happy 76th birthday. His heartfelt message, filled with warmth and appreciation, now serves as a poignant farewell to his devoted followers. This final interaction has become a cherished memory for many who have followed his career for decades.
A Battle with Cancer
In March, Simmons revealed that he had been diagnosed with skin cancer. He shared his journey with his fans, describing the moment he learned about his condition: “I sat in his chair and he looked at it through a magnifying mirror. He told me he would have to scrape it and put it under the microscope. Now I am getting a little bit nervous,” Simmons wrote. “He comes back about 20 minutes later and says the C word. ‘You have cancer.’ I asked him what kind of cancer and he said, ‘Basel [sic] cell carcinoma.’ I told him to stop calling me dirty names. He laughed.”
Early Life and Career
Born Milton Teagle Simmons in New Orleans, Richard Simmons faced obesity from a young age. His struggles with weight led him to pursue a path dedicated to fitness and healthy living. After moving to Los Angeles, Simmons opened a fitness studio, originally named The Anatomy Asylum, which he later rebranded as Simmons. This studio became the launchpad for his career, helping countless individuals achieve their fitness goals.
Rise to Fame
Simmons became a household name in the 1980s with the release of his aerobic workout videos, “Sweatin’ to the Oldies.” These videos, characterized by their energetic routines and catchy music, propelled Simmons to stardom. His vibrant personality and unique style, featuring frizzy hair, sequined tank tops, and short shorts, made him an unforgettable figure in the fitness world.
Television and Film Appearances
Simmons’ popularity extended beyond his workout videos. He became a regular guest on TV and radio talk shows, including “The Late Show with David Letterman” and “The Howard Stern Show.” His charismatic presence and infectious enthusiasm endeared him to audiences everywhere. Simmons also made appearances in several television shows and films, including “General Hospital,” “The Larry Sanders Show,” “Arrested Development,” and “Whose Line Is It Anyway?”
Advocacy and Public Service
Simmons was not just a fitness icon; he was also a passionate advocate for health and wellness. He testified before Congress, urging for increased funding for physical education in schools. His dedication to combating obesity and promoting healthy lifestyles had a lasting impact on public health initiatives across the country.
Retirement and Reclusiveness
In recent years, Simmons retreated from the public eye, leading to much speculation about his well-being. He made his last public appearance in 2014, and in 2016, he gave a phone interview to “The Today Show” to dispel rumors that he was being held hostage by his housekeeper. Despite his absence from the spotlight, Simmons continued to be a beloved figure among his fans.
Controversial Biopic
In January 2024, news broke about a biopic on Simmons, starring actor Pauly Shore. However, Simmons quickly distanced himself from the project, stating on Facebook, “I have never given my permission for this movie. So don’t believe everything you read.” He added, “I no longer have a manager, and I no longer have a publicist. I just try to live a quiet life and be peaceful. Thank you for all your love and support.”
Tributes Pour In
Following the announcement of his death, tributes from celebrities and fans began to flood social media. Actress Ricki Lake wrote on X, “My heart is broken with the loss of this super special human. May he RIP. #richardsimmons I loved him so so much.”
Actor Emerson Collins shared a heartfelt message, saying, “Saddened to hear of Richard Simmons’ passing, a man whose joy in what he did made it accessible to so many. Years ago I asked him for a photo after we performed at a benefit. It came out so hilariously bad with the green room wall, I cut it out and made a nonsense story with it. At the time I just couldn’t stop giggling, thinking he’d be amused by it too. And I think the purity of his delightful expression is something so resistant to cynicism that we could all use a bit more of in our lives.”
Kansas City PBS news host Nick Haines reminisced about his encounters with Simmons: “When I first came to the United States in 1987, I turned on the TV in my New York hotel room & the first image that popped on the screen was Richard Simmons. 10 years later, I’d randomly bump into him at The Eldridge Hotel in Lawrence. He was charming & larger-than-life. RIP.”
Meteorologist Ed Curran reflected on his experiences with Simmons, writing, “RIP Richard Simmons. In the early 80s he spent some time in our radio studio. He was crazy, on and off the air. Everybody had a great time. He was truly an original and I’m sorry to hear of his passing.”
A Legacy Remembered
Richard Simmons’ legacy is one of joy, energy, and an unwavering commitment to helping others live healthier lives. His impact on the fitness industry and popular culture is immeasurable, and he will be remembered as a pioneer who made fitness accessible and fun for millions.
As fans and admirers continue to pay tribute to the legendary fitness icon, his influence and spirit will undoubtedly live on through the countless lives he touched. Richard Simmons may have left this world, but his legacy will continue to inspire and motivate generations to come.
