Legendary American fitness legend Richard Simmons passed away on Saturday, just after celebrating his 76th birthday on Friday.
Details Surrounding Simmons' Death
The LAPD responded to his home after a 911 call from his caretaker and found him deceased. Police sources indicated that he died of natural causes, with no foul play suspected. Earlier this year, Simmons had shared his skin cancer diagnosis.
Health Challenges and Social Media Presence
Three months ago, Simmons alarmed his fans with a Facebook post saying he was dying. He wrote in March, “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.
“Later, he explained that he wasn’t actually dying. His message was meant to remind everyone to cherish each day we have.
Career and Contributions to Fitness
Richard Simmons has been keeping a low profile recently. Earlier this year, there were reports about a movie being made about him, but he dismissed them, saying not everything you hear is true. He mentioned he no longer has a manager or publicist and prefers a quiet, peaceful life.
He used to be very active on social media, often posting multiple times a day. Just before his passing, he thanked everyone for the birthday wishes he received, saying he’d never received so many messages before.
In March, he shared that he had surgery to remove skin cancer from his face, but reassured his fans that he was recovering well. He encouraged everyone to prioritize their health and get regular check-ups, especially those affected by cancer.
He was born as Milton Teagle Simmons in New Orleans on July 12, 1948, but later changed his name to Richard.
Simmons often shared that he struggled with being overweight as a kid. This experience inspired him to start his fitness journey in the 1970s and ’80s. He opened his gym, Slimmons, in Beverly Hills, California, marking the beginning of his career in helping others lose weight.
He published his first book, ‘Never Say Diet,’ in 1980. Throughout his career, he wrote a total of 12 books.
TV Appearances and "The Richard Simmons Show"
In the 1980s, he became widely known for his fitness videos, which became extremely popular during the era’s fitness craze. Aerobics and Jazzercise were gaining popularity nationwide, and his ‘Sweatin’ to the Oldies’ series of videos became some of the most beloved and well-known.
Richard Simmons often appeared on TV, becoming a familiar face on talk shows like “Late Show with David Letterman” and “Rosie O’Donnell Show.” He also acted on the soap opera “General Hospital” and made appearances as himself on shows like “Arrested Development” and “The Larry Sanders Show.”
From 1980 to 1984, Simmons hosted his own talk and fitness show called “The Richard Simmons Show.” It was successful, winning four Daytime Emmy Awards.
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