The world mourns the loss of a fitness legend as Richard Simmons, the charismatic and inspiring fitness coach, has passed away at the age of 76.
His longtime publicist, Tom Estey, confirmed the news to PEOPLE.
Richard died at his Los Angeles home shortly after his birthday.
TMZ was the first to report the news on Saturday, July 13, citing law enforcement sources.
Authorities responded to a call from a housekeeper at around 10 a.m. PT, and no foul play was suspected.
“The world has truly lost an angel,” Estey told PEOPLE, reflecting on the impact Simmons had on countless lives.
Despite having retreated from public life in 2014, Simmons maintained a connection with his fans through social media.
He posted as recently as Saturday morning and shared his gratitude for the birthday messages he received.
“I am sitting here writing emails. Have a most beautiful rest of your Friday,” he wrote in one of his final posts.
Richard Simmons’ journey began with humble roots.
Born Milton Teagle Simmons to vaudeville performer parents on July 12, 1948, he grew up in the French Quarter of New Orleans.
As a child, he was overweight and often teased by classmates.
His weight peaked at 270 lbs by high school graduation.
A turning point came when he found an anonymous note on his car windshield that read, “Fat people die young; please don’t die.”
This spurred him to lose weight, although his initial attempt was unhealthy and led to hospitalization.
In the 1970s, Richard moved to Los Angeles and educated himself on nutrition to maintain a healthy weight.
In 1975, he opened Ruffage and Anatomy Asylum, a health food store and exercise studio that quickly became a hit with celebrities.
Richard Simmons’ vibrant personality and dedication to fitness turned him into a pop culture icon.
Over the next four decades, Richard released bestselling books, produced over 50 workout videos, hosted weight loss cruises, and taught classes at his Slimmons studio in Beverly Hills.
His influence extended to countless talk shows and speaking tours, making him a household name.
However, in early 2014, Richard decided to step away from the spotlight.
His last public appearance was in January 2014, and he taught his final class at Slimmons that February.
The studio officially closed in November 2016.
Richard Simmons initially cited a knee injury as the reason for his retreat.
In March 2016, he called the Today show to assure fans of his well-being.
“I do what I want to do as I’ve always done,” he said. “I just want to sort of just take care of me. I just really don’t want to do anything. I just don’t want to be traveling anymore. It certainly has taken its toll on me.”
Despite public speculation about his reclusion, Richard continued to live a peaceful life at home with his longtime housekeeper, Teresa Reveles.
His older brother, Lenny, remained one of the few people in regular contact with him.
“He’s doing exactly what he wants to do,” Lenny told PEOPLE. “He’s not sitting around doing nothing. He reads, watches TV, rests, exercises, and takes care of his birds and garden.”
In March 2024, Simmons revealed on Facebook that he had been diagnosed with skin cancer.
He shared that he had basal cell carcinoma, which was successfully removed.
This revelation came shortly after a message about embracing life sparked health concerns among his followers, prompting Simmons to clarify that he was not dying.
Richard Simmons will be remembered for his flamboyant personality, his unwavering dedication to helping others, and his profound impact on the fitness world.
“This man is a world treasure,” Estey previously told PEOPLE. “He has helped millions of people lose millions of pounds, he has saved millions of lives. For 40 years, he took care of everyone else but himself.”
My sincerest condolences to the family, friends, and fans of Richard Simmons.
May he rest in peace.
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