Richard Simmons, the beloved fitness icon known for his vibrant personality and energetic workout routines, passed away at his Los Angeles home on July 13 at the age of 76. The Department of Medical Examiner's Office is investigating the cause of death, with no foul play suspected.
Simmons' death occurred one day after his 76th birthday, prompting an investigation by the Department of Medical Examiner's Office. The Los Angeles Police Department confirmed to Fox News Digital that officers responded to a death investigation and found no foul play involved.
According to the Los Angeles Fire Department, first responders were dispatched to Simmons' home for the cardiac arrest of a 76-year-old man, who was pronounced dead at the scene of natural causes.
The official cause of death has been deferred pending additional investigation and testing. The case status remains open, with "other significant conditions" noted as a cause of death.
Simmons had recently given an interview to People magazine where he expressed his gratitude for being alive following a skin cancer diagnosis. On his birthday, Simmons planned to celebrate by blowing out a candle on a zucchini, reflecting his vegetarian lifestyle.
In March, Simmons revealed his skin cancer diagnosis to his followers on Facebook and shared details about the procedure he underwent to remove the cancer cells. Despite the alarming nature of his post, Simmons reassured his fans that his message about "dying" was meant to inspire them to live life to the fullest.
"I have some news to tell you. Please don’t be sad. I am … dying," he wrote at the time. "The truth is we all are dying. Every day we live we are getting closer to our death. Why am I telling you this? Because I want you to enjoy your life to the fullest every single day."
Simmons rose to fame in the late 1970s with "The Richard Simmons Show," which became a cultural phenomenon. His charismatic presence and motivational techniques resonated with millions, making him a household name. He also made numerous appearances on game shows and late-night TV.
His "Sweatin' to the Oldies" workout videos, released in 1988, further cemented his status as a fitness guru. These videos combined classic tunes with aerobic exercises, encouraging people of all ages to get moving. The success of his show and videos earned him two Daytime Emmy Awards for best direction and best talk show.
In his final days, Simmons continued to inspire his fans. He remained active on social media, sharing updates about his health and encouraging his followers to maintain a positive outlook on life. His longtime representative, Tom Estey, confirmed Simmons' death to Fox News Digital on Saturday.
"I am grateful that I'm here, that I am alive for another day," Simmons had said in his last interview. "I'll spend my birthday doing what I do every day, which is to help people."
As the investigation into Simmons' death continues, the Department of Medical Examiner's Office will conduct further tests to determine the exact cause. The LAPD has stated that there is no indication of foul play, and the case status is currently listed as "open."
Fans and followers of Simmons have expressed their condolences and shared memories of his influence on their lives. Many have taken to social media to celebrate his contributions to the fitness world and to honor his memory.
Richard Simmons' passing marks the end of an era for many who grew up with his energetic workouts and motivational messages.
While the exact cause of his death remains under investigation, there is no suspicion of foul play. Simmons' legacy as a fitness icon and motivational figure will continue to inspire generations to come.
