Richard Simmons passed away accidentally due to complications from recent falls and heart disease, according to a statement from his family’s spokesperson on Wednesday.
Tom Estey, the family spokesperson, confirmed the details to NBC News, citing a statement that initially appeared in People magazine, which was the first to report the underlying reasons for Simmons’ death. The statement referenced information from the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office, which reached out to Simmons’ brother, Lenny, with the news.
Toxicology testing indicated that Simmons’ body contained only medications he had been prescribed, Estey noted. A representative from the medical examiner’s office mentioned that they will release information regarding the cause and manner of death once Simmons’ autopsy report is complete, though no specific timeline was provided.
Simmons was discovered unresponsive at his home in the Hollywood Hills on July 13, the day after he celebrated his 76th birthday, according to two law enforcement sources.
Known for his motivational approach to fitness, Simmons struggled with his own weight, transforming from 268 pounds to 156 and dedicating his life to combatting obesity. In the early 1970s, he found it challenging to locate a gym that catered to individuals who were not already fit.
In 1974, Simmons opened his gym, SLIMMONS, and the following year, he launched the restaurant Ruffage alongside an exercise studio named Anatomy Asylum. These ventures drew in celebrities, which in turn led to television appearances and boosted Simmons’ public image.
His influence in fitness extended to mass media products, including “The Richard Simmons Show” on television and the popular workout VHS series “Sweatin’ to the Oldies.”
On March 20, Simmons shared on social media that he had been diagnosed with basal cell carcinoma, a type of skin cancer. He later updated followers to say that the issue had been resolved after undergoing three procedures with a cancer specialist.