Richard Simmons, the hottest workout icon, became synonymous with his effervescent personality and in breaking into health and fitness; passed away on 13th July 2024. His passing caused a shock wave amongst multitudes of fans and colleagues who have been showing their outpouring of grief and tributes across the world. On August 22, 2024, the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office released an initial statement on the cause of death for Simmons. According to this document, it was concluded he had died from blunt traumatic injuries; contributory conditions were arteriosclerotic cardiovascular disease. The article details the circumstances surrounding Simmons’ death and the official findings by the medical examiner.
Richard Simmons Death Circumstances
The Events that Led to His Passing
Richard Simmons died from a fatal accident at his home in Los Angeles. Simmons fell on the 11th of July 2024, after which he felt rather dizzy and unwell. Despite feeling so, he went to rest at home, thinking he would bounce back. In the early morning hours on July 13, Simmons’ longtime housekeeper found him lying unresponsive on the floor of his bedroom. Medical personnel responded but could not revive him and Simmons was pronounced dead at the scene.
The Medical Examiner’s Report
The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office conducted a full investigation into Simmons’ death. They issued an announcement on August 22, 2024, that blunt traumatic injuries from his fall were the immediate causes of Simmons’ death. That is to say, it was an accident. The medical examiner further explained that the arteriosclerotic cardiovascular disease, a case hardening and narrowing of the arteries, was a contributing condition to his death. The complete report, with all details and findings, won’t be finalized until August 30, 2024.
Statements from Simmons’ Family
After the medical examiner revealed the truth behind her death, Tom Estey—the spokesperson handling Simmons’ family—released a statement to PEOPLE on August 21, 2024. Estey revealed, among other things, that Simmons’s brother, Lenny Simmons, was notified of her cause of death. “The Coroner informed Lenny that Richard’s death was an accident due to complications from recent falls, and heart disease was a contributing factor,” Estey said. He also reassured the public that the toxicology report came back negative, other than the medications that had been prescribed to Simmons.
Lenny Simmons was very grateful for the love and good vibes that fans sent their way during such a dark period in their lives. He wanted people to remember his brother as the person who brought so much joy and love into the lives of so many, not to be remembered by people crying over his death.
The Legacy of Richard Simmons
A Life Dedicated to Fitness and Well-Being
Richard Simmons was more than a fitness instructor; rather, he was a cultural phenomenon. In his enduring career, he was able to make over 50 workout videos, of which the unforgettable “Sweatin’ to the Oldies” series sold more than 22 million copies worldwide. Simmons could be said to be an indefatigable promoter of health and fitness. He advocated for exercise as a spur towards better health, not only physically but also mentally. He also became famous for unique meal plans like “Deal-a-Meal,” which focused on portion control and balanced eating.
Simmons’ impact on fitness ran deep. He democratized exercise, made it fun, and opened it up for all ages and levels of fitness. His infectious enthusiasm helped inspire millions to live healthier lives. He was non-judgmental in his approach toward fitness; hence, he turned out to be such a beloved figure in the industry.
Tributes from Friends and Colleagues
Many friends and colleagues of Simmons’ took to social media to express their disbelief at the news of his passing and share some great memories of the man they had come to know and love. Fellow fitness guru and longtime friend Denise Austin paid tribute on Instagram. “I am devastated. He is someone with whom I started working aerobics over 40 years ago,” she wrote, citing their close relationship. “Every time we were together we had so much fun… filled with hugs, laughter, and tears.”
Greg Proops, comedian and “Whose Line Is It Anyway” regular, remembered Simmons, too, as he appeared on the improv-comedy show in June 2003. “Richard Simmons was a lovely man. Gracious and funny. Likely our most popular guest,” Proops told X (formerly Twitter).
The Final Interview and a Brother’s Message
Just two days before he died, in what would be his last interview, Simmons wanted people to know that he had loved them and appreciated them all the same. “I know people miss me,” he said, in acknowledgment of those many thousands who had been concerned about him in the recent years. He never lost his close touch with his fans; yet he withdrew from public life to reach out through telephone calls, letters, and emails in a show of inspiration.
Lenny Simmons, reflecting on his brother’s life, said he wants people to celebrate Richard’s legacy and not to grieve for him. “I want them to remember him for the genuine joy and love he brought to people’s lives,” Lenny told PEOPLE. “He truly cared about people. He called, wrote, and emailed thousands of people throughout his career to offer help.”
Richard Simmons’ net worth
Richard Simmons was an American fitness personality and actor who had a net worth of $20 million at the time of his death. Richard Simmons was most widely recognized for his “Sweatin’ to the Oldies” fitness series and his flamboyant personality. He is a staunch advocate for health and has appeared on numerous talk shows and programs promoting healthy living and fitness.
Conclusion: Remembering Richard Simmons
Richard Simmons’s death truly marked the end of the era of fitness, but his legacy will continue to inspire and lift people for generations to come. His life was dedicated to others’ achievement of health and fitness goals—the evidence lies within the multitude of lives he touched. Though the world weeps at the loss, this should be a time to rejoice over the great deal of enjoyment, laughter, and good Richard Simmons contributed in enormous helpings into the world. Indeed, as his brother Lenny so eloquently put it, an angel has left this earth.
