80s Fitness Icon Dies Naturally at 76

Clear Facts

• Beloved fitness icon and television personality from the 1980s, Richard Simmons, passed away on Saturday, a day after his 76th birthday.
• Simmons’ death was reported to be from natural causes, with no foul play suspected, according to the Los Angeles Police Department.
• During his lifetime, Simmons inspired millions with his motivational speeches and engaging fitness classes, along with his best-selling book, ‘Richard Simmons’ Never-Say-Diet Book.’

The fitness world mourns the loss of a legendary figure, Richard Simmons, who breathed his last on Saturday, just after reaching the age of 76.

Details surrounding his death remain limited at this point. The Los Angeles Police Department responded to his home after a 911 call from his housekeeper and found Simmons dead. He appears to have died of natural causes, and no foul play is suspected.

In a rather alarming Facebook post from March, Simmons had shared a cryptic message that hinted at his declining health.

“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 revealed.

However, Simmons quickly reassured his fans that he was not on the brink of death. His statement was meant to inspire them to cherish each moment of life. The fitness guru wished to encourage people to “embrace every day that we have.”

Simmons found himself in the spotlight again in 2023 due to reports of an upcoming biographical film about his life. Interestingly, the role of Simmons was rumoured to be played by Pauly Shore, the comedic actor renowned for his work in the 1990s. Simmons clarified that he was not involved in the project in any capacity.

“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,” he added.

In one of his final posts on Facebook, Simmons expressed immense gratitude towards his adoring fans for their overwhelming birthday wishes.

“Thank you … I never got so many messages about my birthday in my life!” he shared. “I am sitting here writing emails. Have a most beautiful rest of your Friday.”

Simmons had a significant impact on people’s lives during the peak of his career in the 1980s. His syndicated exercise TV show was widely popular. Simmons “flew around the country making motivational speeches and conducting fitness classes for rapt fans.”

His contributions to the world of fitness were not limited to his TV presence. In 1980, he published ‘Richard Simmons’ Never-Say-Diet Book,’ which was a best-seller. The book contained chapters like ‘Coming to Grips With Your Hips’ and ‘How to Eat Out and Not Pig Out,’ demonstrating Simmons’ unique and practical approach to maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

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