Richard Simmons, known for motivating overweight people to get active and embrace healthy eating habits, died on Saturday.
Simmons, known for his flamboyant tank tops and short shorts, injected unbounded energy into television as the exuberant court jester of physical fitness. He turned 76 on Friday.
According to an email from Richard Simmons’ publicist Tom Estey to The Associated Press, the fitness expert died in his Los Angeles home. “We lost an Angel today–a true Angel,” Estey remarked.
A representative for the Los Angeles Police Department confirmed that officers responded to a 911 call from Richard Simmons’ residence on Belfast Drive, arriving at 9:57 a.m. on Saturday. “Upon arrival, one rescue ambulance encountered a 76-year-old guy who was pronounced dead on the site by firefighter/paramedics due to apparent natural causes. “As a result, no hospital transport was required,” LAFD Captain Erik Scott explained. “I never saw myself as a celebrity.
People don’t realise this, but I’m a timid person and a little bit of an introvert,” he told People. “But when that curtain comes up, it’s a different story. I’m there to make others happy. “But the accolades I receive via email. I mean, we’re probably going to answer over 100 emails today. “And they’ll say, ‘I’m your number one fan,’ and I just write back, like, ‘Don’t say that because I’m a human being like you.
And I know you do nice things, too. “I don’t want people to be sad about my brother,” Lenny Simmons explained. “I want them to remember him for the genuine joy and love he brought to people’s lives.” “We are in shock,” Lenny continued. “Please respect the family at this difficult time.”Simmons’ long-time publicist, Tom Estey, wrote in a statement, “Today the World lost an Angel.”
Simmons celebrated his 76th birthday the day before his untimely death and took to social media to express his gratitude for everyone’s good wishes. “Thank you…””I’ve never received so many birthday messages in my life!” Simmons wrote. “I’m sitting here writing emails.
Have a wonderful rest of your Friday. He signed the post, “Love, Richard.” Simmons, who grew up in New Orleans, struggled with his weight from a young age, reaching nearly 200 pounds by the age of 15.
He weighed 268 pounds when he graduated from high school, according to his website. He also became well-known for his aerobic fitness films, including Sweatin’ to the Oldies (1988) and its sequels (1990 and 1991).
Simmons’ early career was boosted by regular appearances on a variety of TV series, including The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson and game shows like Match Game and The New Hollywood Squares.
He became a late-night television fixture in the 1990s and 2000s, appearing on shows hosted by Jay Leno and David Letterman. Over the years, Simmons sold millions of training videos. He owned a Beverly Hills fitness facility and restaurant frequented by celebrities such as Barbra Streisand and Paul Newman.
Simmons’ health and well-being have been the subject of curiosity since his recent departure from public life in March 2024, when he revealed a skin condition. His death was first reported by TMZ. We are deeply saddened for this loss. May he rest peacefully. Please SHARE this article with your family and friends on Facebook.
