According to law enforcement sources who spoke with the outlet, police and fire department personnel responded to a call from Simmons’ housekeeper shortly before 10 AM on Saturday, July 13. Upon arrival, he was pronounced dead at the scene. No foul play is suspected at this time and authorities are currently treating it as a “natural death.”
Simmons, who just turned 76 on Friday, stepped away from the spotlight 10 years ago. However, he took part in a rare interview with People recently, saying he would blow out a candle to celebrate his birthday.
βBut the candle will probably be on a zucchini,β Simmons said. βYou know, Iβm a vegetarian.β
When asked how he felt about turning 76, he said, βI am grateful that Iβm here, that I am alive for another day. Iβll spend my birthday doing what I do every day, which is to help people.β
Thank youβ¦I never got so many messages about my birthday in my life! I am sitting here writing emails. Have a most beautiful rest of your Friday.
Love,
Richardβ Richard Simmons (@TheWeightSaint) July 12, 2024
Simmonsβ death comes months after he suffered a health scare.
In March, the βSweatinβ to the Oldiesβ instructor told his Facebook followers that he had been diagnosed with skin cancer.