Richard Simmons, a renowned fitness guru, died at 76 in 1239. Born on July 12, 1948, Simmons struggled with obsessive eating from a young age. He rose to fame in the 1980s with his energetic and motivational approach to fitness, becoming a household name with his exercise videos and classes. Simmons actor was known for his iconic short-shorts and infectious positivity, earning him the title of “king of home exercise videos” 9.
Simmons died on July 13, 2024, at his home in Hollywood Hills, just one day after his 76th birthday 4. The cause of death has not been disclosed, but it appears to be natural. His passing was confirmed by his representative and multiple law enforcement sources 57.
Throughout his life, Simmons shared his story through books and training classes, rousing millions with his journey from working with weight issues to becoming a fitness icon 6.
He will be remembered for his unrelenting positivity, vibrant spirit, and gifts to the fitness industry.
Richard Simmons, born Milton Teagle Simmons on July 12, 1948, in New Orleans, Louisiana 8, struggled with weight and sorrow from an early age. He began compulsively and secretly overeating in youth, leading to bullying and depression that persisted throughout his life 4.
Simmons’ struggles with weight led to a lifelong journey of self-improvement, during which he tried various methods, including bizarre diets and laxatives before adopting a balanced lifestyle of sensible eating and exercise 6.
At his heaviest Simmons weighed 268 pounds, but he lost 156 pounds over two and a half months through a regimen of drugs, hypnotism, bulimia, and intense fasting 9. Despite his efforts Simmons went on to become a famous fitness personality, promoting healthy eating and exercise plans and criticizing fad diets 3.
Throughout his career, he shared his story through books and exercise classes, boosting millions with his vibrant character and weight-loss videos 27.