Richard Simmons died suddenly on July 13, 2024, just a day after his 76th birthday. The fitness guru helped millions get healthier during his life and was truly one of the good ones. Once a man who traveled the country weekly, meeting fans and saving lives, Richard retreated from public life in early 2014 and never resurfaced in public again. Many speculated about why Richard suddenly stopped showing up to classes at Slimmons and eventually shuttered his exercise studio for more than 40 years. Some wondered if he’d gained weight, others spread rumors he became a woman, and even more thought his housekeeper, Teresa Reveles, was holding him hostage.
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After going silent for years, Richard Simmons emerged on social media during the pandemic to encourage others to take care of themselves. He didn’t show his face, but anyone who knew Richard and his writing style could tell that the person behind the keyboard was him. For nearly a year, fans have wondered what happened to Richard the day he died, and a close friend wants the world to know he was OK.
Richard Simmons’ Long-Time Publicist Said Richard Was Excited For the Future
Just two days before his death, Richard Simmons gave an interview with People. It was his first in years. He didn’t disclose a lot but said he knew it was time to hang up his striped shorts.
“My body told me I needed to retire,” Richard said.
Tom Estey, who worked as Richard Simmons’ publicist for years, told People when he reconnected with him before his death, he was a totally different person. Tom said Richard “was in a very happy and content place”
Lenny Simmons, Richard’s brother, told People before his death that Richard was working on several projects, including a potential Broadway musical about his life.
“He was so excited,” Lenny said. He added Richard “would always read us the lyrics, in poetry form, of the last song he had written for Patrick.”
We’ll never stop missing Richard Simmons, but knowing he died happy makes the loss a bit more palatable. Richard, we hope you’re Sweatin’ In Heaven.
This story’s featured image is by Bobby Bank/WireImage.
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