TV fitness icon Richard Simmons, known for blending health and humor, passes away at 76

Richard Simmons, the beloved fitness icon known for blending health and humor in his workout routines, passed away at the age of 76. Simmons was a pioneer in the fitness industry, promoting exercise and healthy living through his energetic and entertaining workouts. His unique approach to fitness made him a household name and endeared him to millions of fans around the world.

Simmons' impact on the world of fitness cannot be overstated. He inspired countless individuals to take control of their health and well-being through exercise and proper nutrition. His infectious enthusiasm and positive attitude made working out fun and accessible to people of all ages and fitness levels. Simmons' mantra was "Sweat, Smile, Repeat," a simple yet powerful reminder that exercise should be enjoyable and uplifting.

Simmons died at his home in Los Angeles on Saturday, one day after his birthday. His rep Tom Estey confirmed the news to Variety. 

On Friday, Simmons posted a message on social media thanking his fans for the birthday wishes. 

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

Simmons had continued to distance himself from the biopic, backed by the Wolper Organization, saying in January that he didn’t give Shore “permission” for it. The fitness guru also said he was in talks with studios himself to work on his own, separate, biopic about his life.

Simmons had spooked fans just three months ago when he posted that he was dying on Facebook, writing in March, "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 later clarified that he was not actually dying, but that the message was intended to encourage everyone to "embrace every day that we have."

Simmons has been out of the public eye lately, though there were reports of a biopic being made about the fitness enthusiast earlier this year. Simmons criticized the reports, writing, "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."

The day after that, he shared in another social media post that the issue had been resolved after three procedures with a “cancer doctor,” Dr. Ralph A. Massey.

It was not immediately clear whether Simmons’ recent skin cancer diagnosis had anything to do with his death.

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Sarah H

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