Fitness Icon Richard Simmons Dies at 76
GoLocalProv News Team
Fitness Icon Richard Simmons Dies at 76
Simmons was a prominent figure in the fitness industry, known for his energetic approach to exercise and commitment to promoting health and wellness.
According to ABC, the Los Angeles Police Department responded to his home after a 911 call from his housekeeper and found Simmons dead, according to police sources. He appears to have died of natural causes, and no foul play is suspected, the sources said.
GET THE LATEST BREAKING NEWS HERE -- SIGN UP FOR GOLOCAL FREE DAILY EBLAST"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,'" ABC continued. "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 began his career in fitness after struggling with his own weight during his youth. He graduated from Florida State University with a degree in Art and later moved to Los Angeles, where he established himself as a fitness instructor. His charismatic and engaging style quickly gained popularity, leading to the creation of his iconic exercise studio, Slimmons.
Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Simmons became a household name through his energetic workout programs and videos, most notably "Sweatin' to the Oldies." These programs emphasized accessible fitness routines set to upbeat music, inspiring millions to adopt healthier lifestyles.
Beyond fitness, Simmons authored several books on weight loss and appeared regularly on television, promoting his message of physical and mental well-being. He was known for his philanthropic efforts in supporting health education and obesity prevention.
This obituary was written by GoLocalProv in conjunction with ChatGPT.