Richard Simmons, Fitness Icon, Passes Away at 76
The world of fitness mourns the loss of an iconic figure as Richard Simmons, best known for his energetic exercise programs and unique sense of humor, passed away on Saturday. He was 76.
Simmons, famous for his high-energy workout videos and flamboyant fashion choices, died at his home in Los Angeles, according to his publicist Tom Estey. The Associated Press (AP) confirmed the news, reporting that Los Angeles police and fire departments responded to a house, identified through public records as Simmons’, where a man was declared dead from natural causes.
A Man of Many Talents
Simmons was a former 268-pound teenager who transformed his life through exercise and a healthy diet. He then dedicated his life to helping others do the same. His contributions to the health and fitness industry were immense, ranging from hosting the Emmy-winning daytime show “Richard Simmons Show” to authoring best-selling books, and creating the successful diet plan Deal-A-Meal.
He was also known for his exercise studios and his series of exercise videos, including the wildly successful “Sweatin’ to the Oldies” line, which became a cultural phenomenon.
Simmons’ Legacy
Throughout his career, Simmons remained a staunch critic of fad diets, always emphasizing healthy eating and exercise plans. Some of his notable achievements include:
- His daytime show was seen on 200 stations in America and in Australia, New Zealand, the Philippines, Japan, and South America.
- His first book, “Never Say Diet,” became a best-seller.
- He counseled severely obese individuals, including Rosalie Bradford, who held records for being the world’s heaviest woman, and Michael Hebranko, who credited Simmons for helping him lose 700 pounds.
Despite his fame, Simmons remained committed to making fitness accessible for everyone. In his exercise videos, he included real people — those who were overweight or not traditionally telegenic — to make the fitness goals seem reachable for all.
Remembering Richard Simmons
Simmons was born in New Orleans, and he renamed himself “Richard” around the age of 10 to improve his self-image. His journey towards a healthier lifestyle began after receiving an anonymous letter that urged him not to die young due to his weight. This letter motivated him to devise a sensible plan to lose weight and maintain a healthier lifestyle.
In recent years, Simmons had largely withdrawn from public life, sparking speculation about his health. He refuted these claims, insisting he was enjoying his time in solitude. His death came as a shock to many, triggering a wave of online tributes from fans and celebrities alike.
One such tribute came from actor-comedian Pauly Shore, who had previously developed an unauthorized biopic of Simmons. In an Instagram post, Shore expressed his condolences, stating:
“I just got word like everyone else that the beautiful Richard Simmons has passed,” he began in an Instagram post. “I hope you’re at peace and twinkling up in the heavens,” adding “You’re one of a kind, Richard. An amazing life. An amazing story.”
Simmons’ Lasting Impact
Richard Simmons’ enduring legacy lies in his commitment to promoting health and fitness. His energetic persona, combined with his unique approach to exercise and nutrition, inspired millions worldwide to pursue a healthier lifestyle. His passing is a significant loss to the world of fitness, but his influence will continue to resonate with future generations.
