Fitness Guru Richard Simmons Dies at 76; Remembering His Legacy

Richard Simmons, the iconic fitness guru known for his flamboyant personality and inspirational weight loss journey, has died at age 76. Found unresponsive by his housekeeper, his passing is believed to be due to natural causes. Simmons had recently revealed his battle with skin cancer.

Fitness guru Richard Simmons has passed away at age 76, according to multiple media reports including ABC News and TMZ. His housekeeper found him unresponsive on Saturday morning, and Los Angeles police were notified. TMZ reported that police are treating his death as natural.

However, Los Angeles police have not officially confirmed Simmons' death. Milton Teagle 'Richard' Simmons, known for his vibrant personality, made gyms accessible for people of all shapes and sizes. Earlier this year, Simmons disclosed on social media that he had been diagnosed with skin cancer.

In a March post on X, Simmons stated, 'I have some news to tell you. Please don't be sad. I am…dying. Oh I can see your faces now.' Although his comment caused a media frenzy, he later clarified that the post was meant to be inspirational. Originally from the French Quarter of New Orleans, Simmons struggled with weight loss himself, weighing 268 pounds when he graduated high school.

Simmons' journey from fad diets to a healthier lifestyle motivated millions. He created a series of aerobics videos and fitness studios, and his 'Richard Simmons Show' (1980-1984) won four Daytime Emmys. Though less visible in recent years, he remained active online. On Friday, he thanked fans for birthday wishes as he turned 76.

'So many of you have sent me birthday wishes on my Facebook and other platforms,' he wrote. 'I really appreciate that. I don't know when your birthday is but I wish you a happy and healthy birthday!'

(With inputs from agencies.)