Celebrated Aerobics Enthusiast
Renowned Fitness Luminary Richard Simmons Succumbs at 76
The exceptionally distinctive fitness proponent, Richard Simmons, widely recognized for his ceaseless optimism, has unfortunately passed away, as confirmed by his representative.
Mr. Simmons had just reached his 76th year on this past Friday.
In response to a 911 dispatch originating from his housekeeper, the Los Angeles Police Department visited his residence and discovered Simmons deceased, according to law enforcement informants. It is believed his demise resulted from natural circumstances, with no indications of malevolent action suspected, the sources conveyed.
Three months prior, Simmons had alarmed his devoted followers by posting on Facebook about his impending end, stating in March, "I have some news to impart. Please refrain from sorrow. I am... transitioning. Oh, I can envision your expressions. The reality is, we are all in a state of transition. Each day we experience life, we are drawing nearer to our final moments."
Subsequently, he clarified that his passing was not imminent, but rather his message aimed to inspire everyone to "cherish every single moment we are granted."
While Mr. Simmons had largely withdrawn from the public sphere recently, reports surfaced earlier in the year regarding a biographical film in development about the fitness aficionado. Simmons vociferously disputed these accounts, remarking, "Do not place credence in every utterance you encounter. I no longer retain representation from a manager or a publicist. My sole endeavor is to lead a tranquil existence and maintain serenity."
Simmons was an active participant on social media platforms, frequently posting multiple times daily. He shared an update about his birthday on Facebook the day before his passing, expressing his gratitude: "Thank you… I have never received such a volume of birthday wishes in my entire existence! I am currently engaged in composing electronic correspondence. Have a truly splendid remainder of your Friday."
In March, he informed his followers that a skin malignancy had been surgically removed from his face, assuring them that he was recovering well.
"I am cognizant that some individuals perusing these words have encountered cancer or are acquainted with someone who has faced this affliction," he penned. "Pledge to me that you will consult your physician and undergo a comprehensive medical evaluation."
Born Milton Teagle Simmons in the vibrant city of New Orleans on July 12, 1948, he embraced the name Richard during his formative years.
Mr. Simmons frequently recounted his struggles with being overweight during childhood, a circumstance that propelled him toward his personal weight reduction odyssey and his dedication to a career in fitness, commencing in the 1970s and 1980s. His initial venture into the realm of weight management involved the establishment of his fitness establishment, Slimmons, situated in Beverly Hills, California.
He unveiled his inaugural literary work, titled "Never Say Diet," in the year 1980. This publication marked the first of a total of twelve books he would author throughout his professional tenure.
His series of workout videos experienced a meteoric rise in popularity throughout the 1980s, coinciding with a nationwide surge in fitness consciousness, which included a growing embrace of aerobics and Jazzercise. His video productions, notably the "Sweatin&x27; to the Oldies" collection, achieved significant acclaim, becoming some of the most sought-after visual media of that era.
Furthermore, Simmons was a frequent guest on various television programs, appearing regularly on talk shows ranging from the "Late Show with David Letterman" to "The Rosie O&x27;Donnell Show." He also held a recurring part in the dramatic serial "General Hospital" and made cameo appearances as himself on celebrated programs such as "Arrested Development" and "The Larry Sanders Show."
In addition to these roles, he fronted his own syndicated talk and exercise program, aptly named "The Richard Simmons Show," broadcast between 1980 and 1984. This acclaimed series garnered a remarkable four Daytime Emmy Awards.
The contributions of ABC News correspondent Bonnie McLean were integral to this report.