Simmons, renowned for his colorful tank tops and abbreviated shorts, infused television with an exuberant spirit as the animated jester of physical fitness. He celebrated his 76th birthday on Friday.
According to an email from Richard Simmons’ publicist Tom Estey to The Associated Press, the fitness guru passed away at his Los Angeles home. “We lost an Angel today – a true Angel,” Estey said.
A representative from the Los Angeles Police Department verified that officers attended to a 911 call originating from Richard Simmons’ residence on Belfast Drive, arriving at 9:57 a.m. on Saturday.
“Upon their arrival, a rescue ambulance found a 76-year-old male who was declared deceased at the scene by firefighter/paramedics, attributed to apparent natural causes.
“Consequently, there was no need for hospital transport,” stated LAFD Captain Erik Scott.
I have never considered myself a celebrity. Many are unaware that I am quite shy and somewhat of an introvert, he shared with People.
“However, once the curtain rises, the situation changes entirely. My purpose is to bring joy to others.
“The recognition I receive through emails is significant. Today, for instance, we will likely respond to over 100 messages.
“Many of these emails express sentiments like, ‘I’m your number one fan,’ to which I reply, ‘Please don’t say that, as I am just a human being like you, and I recognize that you also contribute positively to the world.’”
Simmons’ brother, Lenny Simmons, confirmed the death in a statement.
Lenny Simmons expressed, “I do not wish for anyone to feel sorrow regarding my brother. Instead, I hope they will cherish the authentic joy and love he shared with others.”
He further remarked, “We are in a state of disbelief. We kindly ask for privacy for the family during this challenging period.” Tom Estey, Simmons’ long-time publicist, stated, “Today, the world has lost an angel.”
Just one day prior to his unexpected passing, Simmons celebrated his 76th birthday and took to social media to express his gratitude for the birthday messages he received.
“Thank you… I have never received so many birthday wishes in my life!” Simmons wrote. “I am currently writing emails. Wishing you all a beautiful remainder of your Friday.”
He signed the post “Love, Richard.”
Simmons, who grew up in New Orleans, battled weight issues from a young age, tipping the scales at nearly 200 pounds by age 15. By the time he graduated from high school, he weighed 268 pounds, as documented on his website.
From 1980 to 1984, he hosted the Richard Simmons Show that focused on personal health and fitness.
He also achieved recognition through his aerobic exercise videos, including the 1988 release of Sweatin’ to the Oldies and its subsequent sequels in 1990 and 1991.
Simmons built upon his initial success by making numerous appearances on a variety of television programs, which included The Tonight Show starring Johnny Carson as well as game shows such as Match Game and The New Hollywood Squares. Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, he became a prominent figure in late-night television, featuring on shows hosted by Jay Leno and David Letterman.
Over the years, Simmons achieved remarkable success by selling millions of workout videos. He operated an exercise studio and a restaurant in Beverly Hills, which were popular among celebrities such as Barbra Streisand and Paul Newman.
After his recent retreat from public life, during which he revealed a skin condition in March 2024, concerns regarding Simmons’ health and overall well-being began to arise. His passing was first reported by TMZ.
We extend our deepest condolences for this loss. May he rest in peace.
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