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{{short description|American fitness personality (1948–2024)}} | |||
{{Infobox_Person | |||
{{redirect|Sweatin' to the Oldies|The Vandals album|Sweatin' to the Oldies: The Vandals Live{{!}}''Sweatin' to the Oldies: The Vandals Live''}} | |||
| name = Richard Simmons | |||
{{other people|Richard Simmons}} | |||
| residence =] | |||
{{pp-protected|small=yes}} | |||
| other_names = | |||
{{use American English|date=July 2024}} | |||
| image = Richard Simmons-Sweatin to the Oldies 3.jpg | |||
{{use mdy dates|date=September 2024}} | |||
| imagesize = 200px | |||
{{Infobox person | |||
| caption = Richard Simmons | |||
| name = Richard Simmons | |||
| birth_date =], ] | |||
| image = Richard Simmons 1998.jpg | |||
| birth_place = ] | |||
| |
| caption = Simmons in 1998 | ||
| birth_name = Milton Teagle Simmons | |||
| occupation = ] ] | |||
| birth_date = {{birth date|1948|7|12}} | |||
| height = 5' 6½" (1.69 m) | |||
| birth_place = ], Louisiana, U.S. | |||
| website = | |||
| death_date = {{death date and age|2024|7|13|1948|7|12}} | |||
| death_place = Los Angeles, California, U.S. | |||
| resting_place = ], Los Angeles | |||
| occupation = {{hlist|Fitness instructor|actor|video producer}} | |||
| years_active = 1968–2014 | |||
| alma_mater = ]<br />] (]) | |||
| website = {{URL|richardsimmons.com}} | |||
}} | }} | ||
{{otherpersons|Richard Simmons}} | |||
'''Richard Simmons''' (], ]) is a ] ] who promotes weight-loss programs, most famously through a line of ] videos and television programs. He is known for his humor and flamboyant personality. | |||
== Early life == | |||
Richard Simmons was born Milton Teagle Simmons on July 12, 1948 in New Orleans, Louisiana. Simmons was raised in the ] of ] and attended ](now ]). He was an obese child, weighing 268 pounds at the time of his high school graduation. | |||
'''Milton Teagle''' "'''Richard'''" '''Simmons''' (July 12, 1948 – July 13, 2024) was an American fitness instructor and television personality. He was a promoter of weight-loss programs, most prominently through his television show, ''The Richard Simmons Show'' and later the ''Sweatin' to the Oldies'' line of ] videos. | |||
His first job, in New Orleans, was selling ]. After starting college at the ], he transferred to ]. While enrolled there, he studied as an exchange student in ]. He graduated with a BA in Art. With his Art degree, Simmons worked in advertising in ] and also for Coty Cosmetics and Revlon. During his time in New York he also worked as a waiter. | |||
Simmons began his weight-loss career by opening his gym Slimmons in ], catering to the overweight in a supportive atmosphere, and he became widely known through exposure on television and through the popularity of his consumer products. He was often parodied and was a frequent guest on late-night television and radio talk shows, such as the '']'' and '']''. | |||
== Fitness career == | |||
He continued to promote health and exercise through a decades-long career, and later broadened his activities to include political activism, such as in 2008 in support of a bill mandating non-competitive physical education in public schools as a part of the ].<ref>{{cite web|last=Ibanga|first=Imaeyen|url=https://abcnews.go.com/GMA/OnCall/story?id=6038493|title=Richard Simmons Obesity Crusade|publisher=ABC News|date=October 15, 2008|access-date=May 2, 2013|archive-date=December 14, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131214122319/http://abcnews.go.com/GMA/OnCall/story?id=6038493|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|author=Claus von Zastrow on |url=http://www.publicschoolinsights.org/kids-arent-well-rounded-theyre-justrounded|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120907065230/http://www.publicschoolinsights.org/kids-arent-well-rounded-theyre-justrounded|url-status=dead|archive-date=September 7, 2012|title=Kids Aren't Well-Rounded; They're Just...Rounded|publisher=Public School Insights|date=March 27, 2008|access-date=May 2, 2013}}</ref> | |||
Simmons was overweight in his younger days. Simmons lost 123 ] (56 ]). | |||
==Early life== | |||
Upon moving to Los Angeles in the ], Simmons worked as the ] at a restaurant in Beverly Hills. He became interested in fitness, but was dissatisfied with the unhealthy ] methods and established ]s and exercise studios of the day which favored the already fit customer. | |||
Milton Teagle Simmons was born in ], ] on July 12, 1948 to Leonard Douglas Simmons, Sr. and Shirley May (née Satin). He was born to "show-business parents" and raised in the ] of New Orleans.<ref>Simmons (1999) pp. 21–32</ref> Simmons had an older brother.<ref>{{cite magazine|title=Richard Simmons Biography|url=https://www.tvguide.com/celebrities/richard-simmons/bio/3000403133/|magazine=TV Guide|access-date=August 23, 2022|archive-date=August 23, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220823210556/https://www.tvguide.com/celebrities/richard-simmons/bio/3000403133/|url-status=live}}</ref> Their father was raised ] and worked as a ] and later in ]s while their mother was ] and was a traveling ]r and later a store cosmetics saleswoman.<ref name="Still Hungry"/> | |||
Simmons became a practicing ] in adolescence and attended ].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1915&dat=19840212&id=eTJSAAAAIBAJ&pg=1636,1983164|title=Simmons: America has to shape up|first1=Lisa|last1=Anderson|publisher=]|via=]|date=February 12, 1984|access-date=May 16, 2015|archive-date=July 5, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220705113805/https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1915&dat=19840212&id=eTJSAAAAIBAJ&pg=1636%2C1983164|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|author=The Denver Postdenverpost.com|url=http://www.denverpost.com/fitness/ci_9595970|title=Richard Simmons' many secrets|newspaper=The Denver Post|access-date=May 2, 2013|archive-date=October 29, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131029203606/http://www.denverpost.com/fitness/ci_9595970|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://blog.nola.com/chrisbynum/2008/10/fitness_jester_and_hometown_bo.html|title=New Orleans native Richard Simmons moves 'em at Harrah's|last=Bynum|first=Chris|newspaper=]|date=October 3, 2008|access-date=June 11, 2012|archive-date=October 24, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121024005431/http://blog.nola.com/chrisbynum/2008/10/fitness_jester_and_hometown_bo.html|url-status=dead}}</ref> He attended the ] before graduating from ] with a Bachelor of Arts in art.<ref name="GR20181128">{{cite web |last1=Briscoe |first1=Jake |title=What Happened to Richard Simmons – 2018 Update – Gazette Review |url=https://gazettereview.com/2017/03/happened-richard-simmons-news-updates/ |website=Gazette Review |access-date=November 28, 2018 |date=March 24, 2017 |archive-date=November 28, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181128122943/https://gazettereview.com/2017/03/happened-richard-simmons-news-updates/ |url-status=live }} (updated January 3, 2018)</ref> | |||
He later opened his own ], originally called The Anatomy Asylum, where the emphasis was placed on providing encouragement on healthy eating in proper portions and enjoyable exercise. The business originally included a ] restaurant called "Ruffage," that he eventually removed in favor of focusing on exercise. The establishment, now called ''Slimmons'', continues to operate in ] and Simmons teaches motivational classes and ]s throughout the week. | |||
He became ] during his early childhood and adolescence.<ref name=PeopleSvelte/> He began to overeat and became overweight as early as the age of 4 and by the age of 5, he knew it was perceived negatively.<ref name=PeopleSvelte/> At the age of 15, he weighed {{convert|182|lb|kg}}. As a young man, he considered being a priest.<ref name="Chandler">{{cite news|url=http://www.tahoedailytribune.com/article/20070119/ENTERTAINMENT/101190089|title=Church of Richard Simmons: Fitness advocate leads workout at Stateline|last=Chandler|first=Rick|date=January 19, 2007|work=]|access-date=June 14, 2012|archive-date=July 22, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120722004210/http://www.tahoedailytribune.com/article/20070119/ENTERTAINMENT/101190089|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="tbt"/> As a young art student, he appeared among the "freak show" characters in the ] films '']'' (1968) and '']'' (1970) and he eventually reached a peak of {{convert|268|lb|kg|abbr=on}}.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/1981/02/15/books/behind-the-bestsellers.html|title=Behind the Bestsellers|last=Klemesrud|first=Judy|date=February 15, 1981|newspaper=]|access-date=June 11, 2012|archive-date=November 13, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131113115415/http://www.nytimes.com/1981/02/15/books/behind-the-bestsellers.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=PeopleSvelte>{{cite magazine|url=http://www.people.com/people/archive/article/0,,20080593,00.html|title=The Sultan of Svelte|first=Kathy|last=Mackay|date=November 2, 1981|magazine=]|access-date=June 11, 2011|archive-date=March 10, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110310195124/http://www.people.com/people/archive/article/0,,20080593,00.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite magazine | first=Kathy | last=Mackay | title=Former Fatty Richard Simmons Is the Grand Duke of Diet and the Clown Prince of Fitness | url=http://www.people.com/people/archive/article/0,,20079026,00.html | magazine=] | date=April 13, 1981 | access-date=March 21, 2017 | archive-date=August 16, 2016 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160816185425/http://www.people.com/people/archive/article/0,,20079026,00.html | url-status=live }}</ref> | |||
=== Media attention === | |||
With his business proving highly successful, Simmons began to draw media attention, beginning with an appearance on the ] '']'' where he was shown at work and introduced customers who he had helped to lose weight. The positive reaction to this spot led to a recurring role, playing himself, on the American ] '']''. This exposure of himself led to further media focus, as well as personal appearances in ]s, where he taught exercise classes. For a time in the early ], Simmons had an Emmy Award winning talk show, ''The Richard Simmons Show'', where he focused on personal health, fitness, exercise, and healthy cooking. | |||
In an interview with the '']'', Simmons explained he adopted the name Richard after an uncle who paid for his college tuition.<ref name="tbt">{{cite news|url=http://www.tampabay.com/features/popculture/article902169.ece|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121031083916/http://www.tampabay.com/features/popculture/article902169.ece|url-status=dead|archive-date=October 31, 2012|title=My conversation with Richard Simmons|last=Breen|first=Shannon|newspaper=]|date=November 14, 2008|access-date=June 14, 2012}}</ref> His first job in New Orleans was as a child, selling ]es at Leah's Pralines.<ref name="Chandler" /> | |||
Simmons has appeared as himself on numerous TV shows, including '']'', '']'' and '']''. He has also appeared on an episode of '']'' called "]". He hosted a short lived TV show called ''DreamMaker'' in 1999. Simmons has been featured in commercials for ], and ] Shampoos. In Canada, Simmons has appeared on television advertisements promoting Simmon's mattresses in Canada (the company is a division of the US-based ]) although, Simmons has no business connection with the company, other than through advertisement (strictly based on his name). The company has stated that they hired him purely on name and that he appeals to their target audience of women over 35. | |||
==Career== | |||
He currently has a show on Sirius Stars, ] channel 102, called ''Lighten Up with Richard Simmons'', Sundays 3pm - 6pm ET live, with replays of the previous week before the live show, and the current week replays airing after the live show . | |||
===Fitness career=== | |||
] | |||
Upon moving to ] in the 1970s, Simmons worked as the '']'' at Derek's, a restaurant in ].<ref name="Still Hungry"/>{{rp|157}} He developed an interest in fitness. Exercise studios of the day favored the already fit customer, so little help was available for those who needed to gain fitness from an otherwise unhealthy state. He established gyms and his interest in fitness helped him lose {{convert|123|lb|kg|abbr=on}}.<ref name="hollywoodreporter24">{{cite web |last1=Barnes |first1=Mike |title=Richard Simmons, Celebrity Fitness Guru, Dies at 76 |url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/richard-simmons-dead-fitness-guru-1235948038/ |website=The Hollywood Reporter |date=July 13, 2024 |access-date=July 13, 2024 |archive-date=July 13, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240713231440/https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/richard-simmons-dead-fitness-guru-1235948038/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Sullivan |first1=Rebecca |title='Missing Richard Simmons' explores how the fitness guru hasn't been seen in public for more than 1,000 days |url=https://www.foxnews.com/entertainment/missing-richard-simmons-explores-how-the-fitness-guru-hasnt-been-seen-in-public-for-more-than-1000-days |publisher=Fox News |date=March 3, 2017 |access-date=July 13, 2024 |archive-date=July 13, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240713231440/https://www.foxnews.com/entertainment/missing-richard-simmons-explores-how-the-fitness-guru-hasnt-been-seen-in-public-for-more-than-1000-days |url-status=live }}</ref> | |||
He opened his own exercise studio, originally called The Anatomy Asylum, where emphasis was placed on healthy eating in proper portions and enjoyable exercise in a supportive atmosphere. The business originally included a ] restaurant called Ruffage, a pun on the word '']'' (dietary fiber); though it was eventually removed as the focus of The Anatomy Asylum shifted solely to exercise.<ref>Simmons, R. (1999) pp. 177–184</ref> Later renamed Slimmons, the establishment continued operations in Beverly Hills and Simmons taught motivational classes and ] throughout the week.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2009/12/24/fashion/24fitness.html|work=The New York Times|title=A Celebrity Sweats: It's Richard!|first=Tricia|last=Romano|date=December 23, 2009|access-date=May 22, 2010|archive-date=March 31, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110331043650/http://www.nytimes.com/2009/12/24/fashion/24fitness.html|url-status=live}}</ref> His success led to a recurring role in '']'' portraying himself over a four-year period and then to his own television series ''The Richard Simmons Show'', which aired from 1980 to 1984 and earned him multiple ] awards.<ref name="nbc2024">{{cite news |title=Richard Simmons, legendary fitness personality, dies at 76 |url=https://www.nbcnews.com/news/obituaries/richard-simmons-obituary-rcna161728 |publisher=NBC News |date=July 13, 2024 |access-date=July 13, 2024 |archive-date=July 13, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240713225337/https://www.nbcnews.com/news/obituaries/richard-simmons-obituary-rcna161728 |url-status=live }}</ref> Rising interest in aerobics during the 1980s led to the popularization of Simmons' line of fitness videos, particularly his ''Sweatin' to the Oldies'' series, which became one of the most popular videos during the decade.<ref name="ABC24">{{cite news |last1=Osborne |first1=Mark |last2=Stone |first2=David |title=Fitness guru Richard Simmons dead at 76 |url=https://abcnews.go.com/US/fitness-guru-richard-simmons-dead-76/story?id=111912398 |work=ABC News |date=July 13, 2024}}</ref> | |||
=== Fitness plans and marketing === | |||
* Simmons first marketed weight loss plan was called the ''Live It''; the plan was explained in his first book ''Never Say Diet''. | |||
* He has since written several more ]s and produced the ''Deal A Meal'' and ''FoodMover'' weight loss plans. | |||
* He hosts the ''Cruise to Lose'' program on ] and has made ]s in films. | |||
* He also has produced fitness ] such as the ''Sweatin' to the Oldies'' series and ]s for his videos, and food plans, such as The ''Deal-A-Meal'' program and ''FoodMover''. | |||
* Simmons made an exercise album for ], titled ''Reach'', in 1983. | |||
* Simmons had a show in the ] called ''Slim Cookin'''. | |||
* Simmons teaches other instructors to teach ''The Simmons Method''. Training is periodically provided at Hoot Camp, which allows ]-certified instructors to earn ]. Held in Beverly Hills, Hoot Camp is approved by the ] (AFAA). Hoot Camp has also been held in ]. | |||
* Simmons travels the United States, teaching classes, and spends time phoning people who ask for his help. | |||
*He has a dedicated website -- www.richardsimmons.com. | |||
* He currently hosts a three-hour weekly radio show called ''Lighten Up with Richard Simmons'' every Sunday afternoon on ] radio. | |||
* Simmons has worked with Salton to develop a new and unique food steamer, called "Steam Heat" which made its debut on QVC in October 2006. | |||
* Simmons recently filmed a pledge drive special for PBS, called ''Love Yourself And Win,'' set to begin airing in the spring of 2007. | |||
* ], ], Simmons appeared on the Today Show to announce his "Ask America" crusade to get PE back into US public schools as a required course. Simmons asked the viewers go to his website at www.richardsimmons.com and fill out his Ask America survey to help him gather information to take to Washington DC. | |||
] | |||
== Personal life == | |||
In 2010, Simmons stated he had maintained his own 100+ pound (45 kg) weight loss for 42 years, had been helping others lose weight for 35 years, and that in the course of his fitness career, had helped humanity lose approximately 12 million pounds (5.5 million kg).<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.doctoroz.com/videos/richard-simmons-personal-story-pt-2 |title=Richard Simmons' Story, Pt. 2 | The Dr. Oz Show |publisher=Doctoroz.com |date=February 15, 2010 |access-date=May 2, 2013 |archive-date=December 13, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131213035454/http://www.doctoroz.com/videos/richard-simmons-personal-story-pt-2 |url-status=dead}}</ref> | |||
=== Personality === | |||
Simmons is notable for his high-energy and motivational demeanor, an attribute he often uses to help encourage people to lose weight. His trademark attire is candy-striped Dolfin shorts and tank tops decorated with ] crystals. He is also well known for his naturally curly hair, which has led to physical comparisons between him and 70's pop singer ]. {{Fact|date=February 2007}} | |||
===In media=== | |||
Simmons has always been known for his "personal touch," interacting at a personal level with the people using his products. This began when he started personally answering fan mail he received while a cast member of '']''. Simmons still personally answers emails and letters, and makes hundreds of phone calls each week to those who seek his help. He also talks to people on the air during his radio show, and holds weekly live chats in the "clubhouse" area of his website. His appearances also include a "meet and greet" time, so that people can speak to him one on one. | |||
Simmons began to receive media attention due to the success of his health club that started with him on '']'' (where he was shown at work).<ref name=":0">{{cite web |last=Hughes |first=William |date=July 13, 2024 |title=R.I.P. Richard Simmons, fitness guru |url=https://www.avclub.com/r-i-p-richard-simmons-fitness-guru-1851591559 |access-date=July 20, 2024 |website=] |language=en-US}}</ref> He introduced customers whom he had helped to lose weight. He later had guest roles on '']'', '']'', '']'',<ref>{{cite web |last=Danhauer |first=Whitney |date=July 13, 2024 |title=Richard Simmons Dead at Age 76: Fitness Guru Dies 1 Day After Birthday |url=https://www.yahoo.com/entertainment/richard-simmons-dead-age-76-165608075.html |access-date=July 20, 2024 |website=Yahoo Entertainment |publisher=In Touch |language=en-US}}</ref> '']'',<ref>{{cite web |date=September 11, 1985 |title=Body Language - Sept 11, 1985 (Phyllis Diller / Richard Simmons) |url=https://archive.org/details/buzzr-bl-091185-012823-01 |website=archive.org}}</ref> '']'' (]), '']'' (]),<ref>{{cite web |date=July 13, 2024 |title=Richard Simmons, iconic fitness guru, dead at 76 |url=https://wtmx.com/richard-simmons-iconic-fitness-guru-dead-at-76/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240718034212/https://wtmx.com/richard-simmons-iconic-fitness-guru-dead-at-76/ |archive-date=July 18, 2024 |access-date=July 20, 2024 |website=WTMX.com |language=en-US}}</ref> and ]'s '']''.<ref>{{cite web |last=Rodriguez |first=Karla |date=July 13, 2024 |title=A look back at Richard Simmons' energetic and impactful career after fitness guru died age 76 |url=https://www.themirror.com/entertainment/celebrity-news/inside-richard-simmons-career-death-590320 |access-date=July 20, 2024 |website=themirror.com}}</ref> Positive viewer reactions landed Simmons a recurring role as himself in ''General Hospital'' over a four-year period.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.richardsimmons.com/j/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=15&Itemid=80 |title=Richard Simmons Official Site and Clubhouse: Weight Loss and Fitness Tools and Motivation |access-date=May 2, 2013 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080914083209/http://www.richardsimmons.com/j/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=15&Itemid=80 |archive-date=September 14, 2008 }}</ref> This, as well as being in shopping malls (where he taught exercise classes), led to further media attention. In the early 1980s, Simmons hosted two shows — ''Slim Cookin'' and the Emmy Award-winning talk show ''The Richard Simmons Show'',<ref name="nbc2024"/><ref>{{cite web | url=https://celebrity.nine.com.au/latest/richard-simmons-what-happened-to-the-reclusive-fitness-star-explainer/35e0acc8-14f2-4794-be83-8e45ec1c1915 | title=What happened to '80s fitness star Richard Simmons? | date=January 26, 2024 | first1=Chloe-Lee | last1=Longhetti | website=] | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240127041851/https://celebrity.nine.com.au/latest/richard-simmons-what-happened-to-the-reclusive-fitness-star-explainer/35e0acc8-14f2-4794-be83-8e45ec1c1915 | archive-date=January 27, 2024 | url-status=live}}</ref> in which he focused on personal health, fitness, exercise, and healthy cooking. ] Simmons portrayed himself in the '']'' episode "Remote Control Man".<ref>{{cite AV media |url=https://www.nbc.com/amazing-stories/video/remote-control-man/2909101 |title=Watch Amazing Stories Episode: Remote Control Man |language=en-US |access-date=July 20, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240720043650/https://www.nbc.com/amazing-stories/video/remote-control-man/2909101 |archive-date=July 20, 2024 |via=nbc.com}}</ref> Simmons was a guest on '']'' on November 18, 1997, together with ].<ref>{{cite web |last1=Hogan |first1=Kate |title=Richard Simmons Is Back! After Years of Silence, He's Chatty Again — and Revealing Which Star Asked Him to 'Shut Up' |url=https://ca.news.yahoo.com/richard-simmons-back-years-silence-193234460.html |work=People |publisher=Yahoo! |date=May 9, 2024}}</ref> He was a frequent guest on '']'', his last appearance coming in 2013.<ref>{{cite web |title=Richard Simmons Breaks His Silence |url=https://www.howardstern.com/show/2016/03/14/richard-simmons-breaks-his-silence/ |website=howardstern.com |date=March 14, 2016 |access-date=July 13, 2024 |archive-date=July 13, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240713230554/https://www.howardstern.com/show/2016/03/14/richard-simmons-breaks-his-silence/ |url-status=live }}</ref> | |||
Simmons was also a guest on '']'' (NBC)<ref name=":0" /> and the '']'' (CBS), but on November 22, 2000, they had a falling-out after an incident on that night's show. Simmons (while dressed as a turkey) grabbed Letterman as if to hug or kiss him, to which Letterman responded by spraying Simmons with a fire extinguisher, which made Simmons have a severe ].<ref>{{cite web|first=Michael Z. |last=McIntee |title=Show #1515 |publisher=CBS Late Show with David Letterman |date=December 26, 2006 |url=http://www.cbs.com/latenight/lateshow/wahoo/index/php/20061226.phtml |access-date=February 9, 2007 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070514141704/http://www.cbs.com/latenight/lateshow/wahoo/index/php/20061226.phtml |archive-date=May 14, 2007 }}</ref> Simmons did not appear on the Letterman show for six years, finally returning on November 29, 2006. During that time, Letterman once again set Simmons up for a prank; while Simmons was demonstrating a steamer branded with his name, Letterman insisted on placing a tray under the steamer which Simmons did not believe belonged there. When Simmons turned the steamer on, something in the tray exploded and caught fire, sending Simmons running for his life. Despite the scare, Simmons took the incident in fairly good nature, even joking that he "felt like ]" (referring to a mishap where Jackson's hair was accidentally set on fire by pyrotechnics while filming a ] commercial).<ref>{{YouTube|b6xTBWjFnZs|Richard Simmons Steamer}}</ref> | |||
=== Controversy === | |||
On ], ], Simmons was arrested and charged with ] after allegedly slapping Chris Farney, a motorcycle salesman, at ] in ]. The salesman spotted Simmons in the crowd and said, "Look, Richard Simmons! Drop your bags, let's rock to the '50s." Simmons allegedly replied, "It's not nice to make fun of people with issues," then lightly slapped Farney's face. The motorcycle salesman, who did not suffer any injuries, called the police. All charges against Simmons were dropped.<ref>{{cite web | title = Simmons Assault Charge Exorcised | publisher = CBS News | date = ], ] | url = http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2004/03/25/entertainment/main608558.shtml | accessdate = 2007-02-09}}</ref> | |||
In 1998, Simmons provided the voice of Boone in '']''.<ref>{{citation |last=GoodTimes Entertainment |title=Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer - The Movie (DVD) |year=1998 |url=http://archive.org/details/rudolph-the-red-nosed-reindeer-the-movie-dvd-1998 |access-date=July 20, 2024}}</ref> He featured as himself on numerous television series, including '']'', '']'', '']'', '']'', and in the '']'' episode "]". In 1999, he hosted the short-lived television series ''DreamMaker''.<ref>{{citation |last=Television Academy Foundation |title=TALKING ABOUT Richard Simmons |year=2015 |url=http://interviews.televisionacademy.com/people/richard-simmons |access-date=November 1, 2024}}</ref> On January 14, 2000, Simmons and ] parted ways, following low ratings.<ref>{{citation |last=Variety |title=For Simmons, 'Dream' will be over soon |year=1999 |url=http://variety.com/1999/tv/news/for-simmons-dream-will-be-over-soon-1117758311/ |access-date=November 1, 2024}}</ref> In 2007, he filmed the ] pledge-drive special ''Love Yourself and Win''.<ref>{{citation |last=Total Fitness DVD's |title=Richard Simmons Love Yourself and Win DVD |year=2007 |url=http://www.totalfitnessdvds.com/Richard-Simmons-Love-Yourself-and-Win-DVD-p/2060.htm |access-date=November 1, 2024}}</ref> | |||
He also featured in television advertisements for ], ], and ] shampoos. In late 2007, he was in a '']'' commercial on ] as the show's "conditioning coach".<ref>{{cite magazine |last=Gonzalez |first=Ale |date=July 13, 2024 |title=Remembering Richard Simmons with iconic ESPN SportsCenter commercial |url=https://www.si.com/onsi/athlete-lifestyle/news/remembering-richard-simmons-with-iconic-espn-sportscenter-commercial |access-date=July 20, 2024 |magazine=] |language=en-US}}</ref> In the '']'' episode "No Pain, No Gain", Simmons voiced an exercise trainer bearing his animated likeness, leading a class filled with large, ] animals.<ref>{{cite web |last=Gates |first=Marya E. |date=July 15, 2024 |title=A Force For Good: Richard Simmons (1948-2024) |url=https://www.rogerebert.com/tributes/richard-simmons-tribute |access-date=July 20, 2024 |website=rogerebert.com |language=en}}</ref> | |||
Simmons appeared multiple times on '']'' on ].<ref>{{cite news|url=http://transcripts.cnn.com/TRANSCRIPTS/0606/22/gb.01.html|publisher=CNN|access-date=May 22, 2010|title=CNN.com|archive-date=June 29, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110629122650/http://transcripts.cnn.com/TRANSCRIPTS/0606/22/gb.01.html|url-status=live}}</ref> From 2006 to 2008, he hosted a radio show on Sirius Stars (] channel 102) titled ''Lighten Up with Richard Simmons''.<ref name="CGN2006">{{cite web|title=California Governors Conference 2006|url=http://www.californiagovernorsconference.org/|website=californiagovernorsconference.org|access-date=November 28, 2018|date=September 26, 2006|archive-date=January 28, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190128143747/http://www.californiagovernorsconference.org/|url-status=live}} (date per google; included to cite earliest mention of the show)</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.fearlessfatloss.com/weight-loss-news/a-sad-day-on-sirius-satellite-radio-no-more-richard-simmons/|title=A Sad Day on Sirius Satellite Radio – No More Richard Simmons|publisher=fearlessfatloss.com|last=Braley|first=JoLynn|date=October 27, 2008|access-date=March 7, 2017|archive-date=March 7, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170307212834/http://www.fearlessfatloss.com/weight-loss-news/a-sad-day-on-sirius-satellite-radio-no-more-richard-simmons/|url-status=live}}</ref> He provided the voice of Coach Salmons, a recurring character modeled after his own likeness, for '']''.<ref name="hollywoodreporter24" /> In 2011, Simmons starred in "Fit to Fly with Richard Simmons", an ] inflight safety briefing video modeled after his aerobic workouts.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3iaTEgoezNQ|title=Mile-high madness with Richard Simmons!|via=YouTube|date=March 27, 2011|access-date=May 2, 2013|archive-date=May 18, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130518155710/http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3iaTEgoezNQ|url-status=live}}</ref> He is featured heavily in the film clip of "Hawker Boat" by ], taken from the album '']''.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RSwN4_1NIoU|title=Tobacco – Hawker Boat|via=YouTube|date=November 13, 2008|access-date=May 2, 2013|archive-date=June 9, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140609081948/http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RSwN4_1NIoU|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
=== Hurricane Katrina response === | |||
In ] Simmons appeared on '']'' to discuss the effects of ] on his family in his hometown of ] and his involvement in aiding those affected by the hurricane. On ], ] Simmons appeared on "Your World with Neil Cavuto" while making a return visit to New Orleans one year after the flooding, a visit he repeated on March 2, 2007, now talking about his recent trip to Washington DC to promote and raise awareness about The Strengthening Physical Education Act of 2007 (bill HR 1224). | |||
During the ] in 2020, Simmons' YouTube channel was updated with archival exercise videos (recorded before his decision to withdraw from public life) to help people stay fit at home. A spokesperson said the move was motivated by an "overwhelming request for Richard to return in some way as a comfort" and added that Simmons was "very touched by the outreach".<ref>{{cite news|url = https://www.yahoo.com/entertainment/richard-simmons-is-posting-sweatin-to-the-oldies-videos-as-a-comfort-during-the-coronavirus-pandemic-230611211.html|title = Richard Simmons of 'Sweatin' to the Oldies' is posting fitness videos 'as a comfort' during the coronavirus pandemic|publisher = ]|date = April 3, 2020|accessdate = April 15, 2023|last = Solé|first = Elise|archive-date = April 15, 2023|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20230415134235/https://www.yahoo.com/entertainment/richard-simmons-is-posting-sweatin-to-the-oldies-videos-as-a-comfort-during-the-coronavirus-pandemic-230611211.html|url-status = live}}</ref> | |||
== Trivia == | |||
{{Trivia|date=June 2007}} | |||
*Simmons briefly studied to become a ].<ref>{{cite web | first =Rick | last= Chandler | title = Church of Richard Simmons: Fitness advocate leads workout at Stateline | publisher = Tahoe Daily Tribune | date = ], ] | url = http://tahoedailytribune.com/article/20070119/ENTERTAINMENT/101190089 | accessdate = 2007-02-09}}</ref> | |||
*In a deleted scene from '']'' episode "]", ] forces ] to leave his property by unleashing a robotic Richard Simmons. This scene later aired as an outtake in the ]. | |||
*In '']'' episode "]", a drunken ] proves his immortality by taunting scary looking bikers with the questions "Hey, aren't you Richard Simmons?" and "Aren't you Richard Simmons' best friend, Richard Simmons?". | |||
*Simmons was a frequent guest on '']'' in the 1990s. He refused to appear after Stern insulted Simmons one too many times. Simmons finally reappeared on Stern's show on ], ].<ref>{{cite news |first=Larry |last=McShane |title= Stars cross paths at Sirius studios |url=http://www.northjersey.com/page.php?qstr=eXJpcnk3ZjczN2Y3dnFlZUVFeXkxNjcmZmdiZWw3Zjd2cWVlRUV5eTcwNzIyODImeXJpcnk3ZjcxN2Y3dnFlZUVFeXk3 |work= |publisher=North Jersey Media Group |date=2007-02-07 |accessdate=2007-02-10 }}</ref> | |||
*Simmons was also a frequent guest on '']'' (NBC) and '']'' (CBS). <ref>http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0799873/</ref> On ], ], they had a falling out after an incident that occurred on that night's show. Simmons (while dressed as a turkey) was sprayed in the face by Letterman with a fire extinguisher after Simmons grabbed Letterman as if to hug or kiss him, causing Simmons to have a severe asthma attack.<ref>{{cite web | first = Michael Z. | last = McIntee | title = Show #2661 | publisher = CBS Late Show with David Letterman | date = ], ] | url = http://www.cbs.com/latenight/lateshow/wahoo/index/php/20061226.phtml | accessdate = 2007-02-09}}</ref> Simmons did not appear on the Letterman show for six years, finally returning on ], ]. During that appearance, Letterman once again set Simmons up for a prank. While Richard Simmons was demonstrating a steamer branded with his name, Letterman insisted on placing a tray under the steamer which Simmons did not believe belonged there. When Simmons turned the steamer on, something in the tray under it exploded and started burning. Though initially scared, Simmons took the incident in fairly good nature, even joking that he "felt like Michael Jackson" (referring to a mishap where Jackson's hair was set on fire by a malfunctioning light.)<ref>http://www.funnyclipcentral.com/content/simmonssteamer.php</ref> | |||
*An animated version of Simmons appeared in a '']'' episode as a man who used to bully Johnny when they were kids.<ref>http://www.tv.com/johnny-bravo/get-shovelized!---t-is-for-trouble/episode/339210/summary.html</ref> | |||
*In an episode of '']'' Rocko and Heffer went to a gym where a workout assistant resembled Richard Simmons. In fact, Richard Simmons voiced this character, evident in the credits. And that character returned in a TV commercial in the show in a commercial that said, "Sweatin in your undies." This second appearance did not feature a voice with the character. | |||
*In the episode Waking Nightmare of '']'', a Richard Simmons is sent to wake up Mandy. | |||
*In the 1996 film '']'', ] (in heavy makeup) plays a parody of Simmons called Lance Perkins, an exuberant fitness expert who listens sympathetically to an obese woman tearfully recall being the butt of a cruel fraternity prank. Perkins also markets his own "Mega-Shake" product, similar to Simmons' line of nutrition products and diet plans. | |||
In January 2024, an as-yet untitled biopic about Simmons, starring ], was announced, titled ''The Court Jester''. Simmons stated on Facebook, "I have never given my permission for this movie."<ref name="guard-17jan2024">{{cite news |last1=Cain |first1=Sian |title=Richard Simmons disavows biopic: 'I have never given my permission for this movie' |url=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2024/jan/18/richard-simmons-biopic-criticism-permission-fitness-instructor |access-date=January 17, 2024 |work=] |date=January 17, 2024}}</ref> In April, he said he was discussing giving his approval for a different biopic.<ref>{{cite web |last=Wong |first=Curtis M. |date=April 29, 2024 |title=Pauly Shore Shares Devastation Over Richard Simmons' Negative Biopic Reaction |url=https://www.huffpost.com/entry/pauly-shore-richard-simmons-biopic-tears_n_662fb01de4b09dcb78308a15 |access-date=April 30, 2024 |website=HuffPost |language=en |archive-date=April 30, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240430112445/https://www.huffpost.com/entry/pauly-shore-richard-simmons-biopic-tears_n_662fb01de4b09dcb78308a15 |url-status=live }}</ref> | |||
== Print and media == | |||
=== Books === | |||
* ''Never Say Diet'' ISBN 0-517-40284-X | |||
* ''Never Say Diet Cookbook'' | |||
* ''The Better Body Book'' | |||
* ''Reach for Fitness: A Special Book of Exercises for the Physically Challenged'' Warner Books 1986 ISBN 0-446-51302-4 | |||
*''Richard Simmons' Never Give Up: Inspirations, Reflections, Stories of Hope'' Warner Books, 1984 ISBN 0-446-60085-7 | |||
* ''Farewell to Fat'' Atlantic Books 2002 ISBN 1-57719-102-1 | |||
* ''Sweetie Pie'' | |||
* ''Still Hungry After All These Years: My Story'' Gt Pub Corp 1999 ISBN 1-57719-356-3 | |||
* ''The FoodMover Cookbook'' | |||
* ''Cookin' on Broadway'' | |||
* ''Steam Away the Pounds'' | |||
== |
==Personal life== | ||
=== |
===Religion=== | ||
Simmons became ] as a teenager, having first asked his parents if he could convert as a younger child. He attended church with his brother Lenny for years until being baptized and ] on the same day.<ref>{{cite web |last=Simmons |first=Richard |date=March 6, 2024 |title=Post |url=https://x.com/TheWeightSaint/status/1765422562148864066?t=KafsR4cK2a2aEfLSpGbt5Q&s=19 |access-date=October 5, 2024 |website=X}}</ref> He considered the priesthood for a time, but decided against it. | |||
* ''Project Me'' (six tape set) | |||
* ''Sweatin' and Sharin''' | |||
He lapsed as an older adult, but returned to the faith in his later years.<ref>{{cite web |title=Remembering Richard Simmons and His 'Extreme Catholic' Faith {{!}} National Catholic Register |url=https://www.ncregister.com/blog/richard-simmons-catholic-faith?amp |access-date=October 5, 2024 |website=National Catholic Register}}</ref> | |||
* ''Colors of Your Life'' (single tape) | |||
* ''Colors of Your Life'' (six tape set) | |||
===Personality=== | |||
* ''Take a Walk'' | |||
] | |||
* ''Take a Hike'' | |||
Simmons used his energetic, loud, and motivational demeanor to encourage people to lose weight. His high energy level was always featured in his workout videos. His trademark attire was tank tops decorated with ] crystals and candy-striped ].<ref name="tbt"/><ref>{{cite news|url=https://abcnews.go.com/Nightline/story?id=6940049#.T-qkY9mkBpQ|title=The Real Richard Simmons: 'Still Doin' It' at 60|author=Chris Connelly, Steven Baker|publisher=]|date=February 23, 2009|access-date=June 27, 2012|archive-date=December 4, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131204030653/http://abcnews.go.com/Nightline/story?id=6940049#.T-qkY9mkBpQ|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
Simmons interacted at a personal level with fans and people using his products. This began by personally answering fan mail he received as a cast member of '']''. As late as 2008, he personally answered emails and letters and made hundreds of phone calls each week to those who would seek his help.<ref name="pang">{{cite news|url=https://www.chicagotribune.com/entertainment/chi-simmons--0604jun04,0,1865034.story |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080606235114/http://www.chicagotribune.com/entertainment/chi-simmons--0604jun04%2C0%2C1865034.story |archive-date=June 6, 2008 |author=Pang, Kevin |title=The many secrets of Richard Simmons |newspaper=Chicago Tribune |date=June 4, 2008 |access-date=June 4, 2008 |url-status=dead }}</ref> | |||
He claimed to have few friends, saying, "I don't have a lot to offer to one person. I have a lot to offer to a lot of people." Aside from his six ]s and two ]s, Simmons lived alone in ].<ref name="pang"/> Although his persona inspired speculation about his ], he never publicly addressed the subject.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/1999/12/12/magazine/the-way-we-live-now-12-12-99-counter-culture-not-a-straight-story.html?pagewanted=4|title=The Way We Live Now: Counter Culture; Not a Straight Story|last=Sullivan|first=Andrew|author-link=Andrew Sullivan|date=December 12, 1999|work=]|page=§6 p.4|access-date=April 5, 2009|archive-date=September 29, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130929025310/http://www.nytimes.com/1999/12/12/magazine/the-way-we-live-now-12-12-99-counter-culture-not-a-straight-story.html?pagewanted=4|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite journal|last=Garelick|first=Rhonda|date=September 1995|url=http://www.iath.virginia.edu/pmc/text-only/issue.995/pop-cult.995|title=Outrageous Dieting: The Camp Performance of Richard Simmons|journal=Postmodern Culture|publisher=]|volume=6|issue=1|doi=10.1353/pmc.1995.0038|s2cid=143735265|issn=1053-1920|access-date=April 5, 2009|archive-date=July 4, 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080704151101/http://www.iath.virginia.edu/pmc/text-only/issue.995/pop-cult.995|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite journal|last=Kendall|first=Lori|date=March 22, 2008|title=James Bond, Peter Pan, and A Sticky Night of Love: irony and masculinities in amateur animated videos|journal=The Journal of Men's Studies|volume=16|issue=2|page=124|issn=1060-8265|quote=The montage of Gay Peter Pan's phone contacts includes out celebrities like Richard Simmons and Rosie O'Donnell|doi=10.3149/jms.1602.124|hdl=2142/18806|s2cid=144617297|hdl-access=free}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|title=Heroes are hard to find when the're hiding|last=Rinaldi|first=Ray Mark|date=April 23, 2000|work=]|page=F3|quote=We've always allowed gay men on the tube – did anyone besides my grandmother really think ] was heterosexual? What about ]? Richard Simmons? — but the rules are clear. It's all right to be a flamer as long as you agree to keep it secret.}}</ref><ref> | |||
{{cite journal|last=Wieder|first=Judy|date=January 21, 2003|title=The real Rosie: 365 days of amazing challenges and feisty decisions turned America's sweetheart into the fighter she's always been—and The Advocate's leading lady for 2002. (Person of the Year)|journal=]|issue=15|page=52|issn=0001-8996|quote=When Kathy Kinney came on my show and outed Richard Simmons, I didn't try to "in" Richard Simmons. The gay community accused me of in-ing Richard Simmons, like I was trying to make people think that he was straight. I will tell you this: If Richard Simmons ever wants to discuss his private life with me on national TV, he's welcome to do so. It is not anyone else's right to do that before he decides it's time. That's the reason I said to Kathy Kinney, "We'll be right back with a commercial." I'm simply saying that that right belongs to him. And no matter what community you feel he's a part of or what he represents to you, it is not as relevant as his own truth.}}</ref> After his death in 2024, ] stated she had last seen him for lunch at the ], when he was accompanied by his new boyfriend.<ref>{{cite news|last=Sloop|first=Hope|title=Jane Fonda Pays Tribute to Richard Simmons After His Death: 'I Hope He Felt the Love So Many Were Sending Him'|work=Entertainment Tonight|date=July 14, 2024|url=https://www.etonline.com/jane-fonda-pays-tribute-to-richard-simmons-after-his-death-i-hope-he-felt-the-love-so-many-were|access-date=July 17, 2024}}</ref> | |||
In a 2012 interview with '']'', he was quoted: | |||
{{blockquote | When the king gets depressed, he doesn't call for his wife or the cook. He turns to the little man with the pointed hat and says to the court jester "make me laugh". And I am that court jester.| Richard Simmons | ''Men's Health''<ref>{{cite magazine | title=The MH Interview: Richard Simmons | author=Spitznagel, Eric | date=April 25, 2012 | magazine=Men's Health | url=https://www.menshealth.com/guy-wisdom/richard-simmons | access-date=December 15, 2017 | archive-date=December 11, 2017 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171211162426/https://www.menshealth.com/guy-wisdom/richard-simmons | url-status=live }}</ref>}} | |||
===Hurricane Katrina response=== | |||
In September 2005, Simmons appeared on '']''<ref>{{cite web |title=Richard Simmons' History of Helping Others: From Weight Loss to Hurricane Katrina |url=https://www.etonline.com/media/videos/richard_simmons_history_of_helping_others_from_weight_loss_to_hurricane_katrina-184482 |access-date=July 20, 2024 |website=] |language=en-US |type=Television production}}</ref> to discuss the effects of ] on his family in his hometown of New Orleans, and his involvement in aiding those affected by the hurricane. On August 29, 2006, Simmons was on '']'' while making a return visit to New Orleans one year after the flooding, a visit he repeated on March 2, 2007, now talking about his recent trip to Washington, D.C., to promote and raise awareness about the Strengthening Physical Education Act of 2007 (H.R. 1224).<ref>{{cite news |date=October 25, 2007 |title=Richard Simmons Keeps P.E. Campaign Going |url=https://www.edweek.org/education/richard-simmons-keeps-p-e-campaign-going/2007/10 |access-date=July 20, 2024 |work=] |language=en |issn=0277-4232}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Simmons |first=Richard |title=We received some sobering news from WASHINGTON late Monday |url=http://www.richardsimmons.com/pages/HR1224.php |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071012083825/http://www.richardsimmons.com/pages/HR1224.php |archive-date=October 12, 2007 |website=richardsimmons.com}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |date=February 28, 2007 |title=H.R.1224 - Strengthening Physical Education Act of 2007 |url=https://www.congress.gov/bill/110th-congress/house-bill/1224/all-actions |archive-url= |access-date=July 19, 2024 |website=Congress.gov}}</ref> | |||
===Retirement=== | |||
After 2014, Simmons did not make any major public appearances. He stopped appearing in public altogether on February 15 of that year. In March 2016, speculation began that he was being held hostage by his housekeeper.<ref name="Yahoo20160313">{{cite news|url=https://www.yahoo.com/celebrity/richard-simmons-missing-two-years-191101708.html|title=Richard Simmons Has Been Missing for Two Years, Friends Concerned He's Being Held Hostage|publisher=Yahoo News|date=March 13, 2016|access-date=March 13, 2016|archive-date=October 5, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171005094818/https://www.yahoo.com/celebrity/richard-simmons-missing-two-years-191101708.html|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name="NYDN20160312">{{cite news|url=http://interactive.nydailynews.com/2016/03/richard-simmons-disappeared-twisted-mystery|title=Where's Richard Simmons? Twisted mystery has friends concerned|author=Andy Martino|newspaper=Daily News|location=New York|date=March 12, 2016|access-date=March 13, 2016|archive-date=July 15, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200715043215/http://interactive.nydailynews.com/2016/03/richard-simmons-disappeared-twisted-mystery/|url-status=dead}}</ref> In response, on March 14, Simmons gave an audio interview on '']'', denying the rumors and assuring the public that he is fine.<ref name="CNN20160313">{{cite web|title=Richard Simmons speaks out on his absence|url=http://www.cnn.com/2016/03/13/entertainment/richard-simmons-mystery-feat/index.html|publisher=CNN|date=March 13, 2016|access-date=March 14, 2016|archive-date=March 13, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160313205153/http://www.cnn.com/2016/03/13/entertainment/richard-simmons-mystery-feat/index.html|url-status=live}}</ref> In November 2016, the Simmons fitness gym closed without any public announcement from Simmons.<ref name="close">{{cite news|url=https://www.tmz.com/2016/11/19/richard-simmons-slimmons-studio-closed/|title=Richard Simmons 'Slimmons' Closes ...No Sign of Richard|date=November 19, 2016|work=TMZ|access-date=April 17, 2020|archive-date=November 11, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201111182936/https://www.tmz.com/2016/11/19/richard-simmons-slimmons-studio-closed/|url-status=live}}</ref> In February 2017, the podcast '']'' launched, investigating why Simmons left public life so suddenly.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.missingrichardsimmons.com/|title=Missing Richard Simmons|website=Missing Richard Simmons|access-date=February 27, 2017|archive-date=February 27, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170227232108/https://www.missingrichardsimmons.com/|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
In March the same year, ] detectives visited Simmons' home to conduct a ], issuing a statement that Simmons is "perfectly fine" and that "right now he is doing what he wants to do and it is his business".<ref name="HP20170310">{{cite news|url=https://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/richard-simmons-is-perfectly-fine-lapd-says-after-visit_us_58c28013e4b054a0ea69c484|title=Richard Simmons Is 'Perfectly Fine', LAPD Says After Visit|author=Ron Dicker|work=HuffPost|date=March 10, 2017|access-date=April 17, 2020|archive-date=November 2, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171102060740/https://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/richard-simmons-is-perfectly-fine-lapd-says-after-visit_us_58c28013e4b054a0ea69c484|url-status=live}}</ref> On April 19, following a hospitalization for severe ], Simmons made his first public comment in over a year, posting on Facebook a photo of himself and the message "I'm not 'missing', just a little under the weather".<ref name="guardian-19apr2017">{{cite news|last1=Holpuch|first1=Amanda|title=Richard Simmons makes statement for first time in a year: 'I'm not missing'|url=https://www.theguardian.com/culture/2017/apr/19/richard-simmons-speaks-missing-rumor-statement|access-date=April 19, 2017|newspaper=]|date=April 19, 2017}}</ref> However, the picture that was included in the post was from as far back as 2013, leading to speculation that the person who posted the message might not actually have been Simmons.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.msn.com/en-us/tv/celebrity/richard-simmons-speaks-directly-to-fans-for-first-time-in-three-years/ar-BBA2WPd?OCID=ansmsnnews11|title=Richard Simmons Speaks Directly to Fans for First Time in Three Years|website=] via ]|date=April 19, 2017|access-date=April 20, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170420144228/http://www.msn.com/en-us/tv/celebrity/richard-simmons-speaks-directly-to-fans-for-first-time-in-three-years/ar-BBA2WPd?OCID=ansmsnnews11|archive-date=April 20, 2017|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|first=Corinne|last=Heller|title=Why This 'New' Richard Simmons Photo and Message Make His Disappearance Even More Confusing|url=http://www.eonline.com/news/844557/why-this-new-richard-simmons-photo-and-message-make-his-disappearance-even-more-confusing|website=]|date=April 19, 2017|access-date=April 20, 2017|archive-date=April 20, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170420013438/http://www.eonline.com/news/844557/why-this-new-richard-simmons-photo-and-message-make-his-disappearance-even-more-confusing|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|first=Dan|last=Clarendon|url=http://www.wetpaint.com/where-is-richard-simmons-facebook-post-1584582|title=Someone Updated Richard Simmons' Facebook, and We're Not Sure It Was Him|website=]|date=April 19, 2017|access-date=April 20, 2017|archive-date=April 20, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170420143414/http://www.wetpaint.com/where-is-richard-simmons-facebook-post-1584582/|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
In May 2017, he sued the '']'', ], and ] for libel and false claims that he was undergoing ].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.vulture.com/2017/05/richard-simmons-sues-national-enquirer-over-transition-story.html|title=Richard Simmons sues media companies for libel and false accusations of being transgender.|last=Kiefer|first=Halle|date=May 8, 2017|website=Vulture.com|access-date=May 6, 2017|archive-date=May 11, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170511084557/http://www.vulture.com/2017/05/richard-simmons-sues-national-enquirer-over-transition-story.html|url-status=live}}</ref> In September 2017, Simmons lost the lawsuit and was ordered to pay the defendants' attorney's fees. The judge ruled, "because courts have long held that a misidentification of certain immutable characteristics do not naturally tend to injure one's reputation, even if there is sizeable portion of the population who hold prejudices against those characteristics, misidentification of a person as transgender is not actionable defamation absent special damages".<ref name="sfgate-21sep2017">{{cite news|last1=Kenneally|first1=Tim|title=Richard Simmons Ordered to Pay National Enquirer's Legal Fees in Transgender Story Lawsuit|url=http://www.sfgate.com/entertainment/the-wrap/article/Richard-Simmons-Ordered-to-Pay-National-12219069.php|access-date=September 21, 2017|newspaper=]|date=September 21, 2017|archive-date=September 22, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170922024459/http://www.sfgate.com/entertainment/the-wrap/article/Richard-Simmons-Ordered-to-Pay-National-12219069.php|url-status=dead}}</ref> | |||
In June 2018, he sued a Los Angeles private investigator, claiming he had placed a tracking device over a year earlier on the only vehicle Simmons used for transportation, noting that such tracking is in violation of California law.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/richard-simmons-sues-pi-tracking-device-1117220 |newspaper=The Hollywood Reporter |first=Jonathan |last=Handel |date=June 5, 2018 |title=Richard Simmons Sues PI Over Tracking Device |access-date=July 21, 2018 |archive-date=July 21, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180721103104/https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/richard-simmons-sues-pi-tracking-device-1117220 |url-status=live }}</ref> In July 2018, Simmons amended the suit, alleging the investigator had been hired by '']'' and prosecutors filed a criminal complaint.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/thr-esq/prosecutors-charge-private-eye-spying-richard-simmons-1128873 |newspaper=The Hollywood Reporter |first=Eriq |last=Gardner |date=July 20, 2018 |title=Prosecutors Charge Private Eye With Illegal Spying on Richard Simmons |access-date=July 21, 2018 |archive-date=July 21, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180721021836/https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/thr-esq/prosecutors-charge-private-eye-spying-richard-simmons-1128873 |url-status=live }}</ref> In May 2020, a California appellate court upheld a trial judge's decision allowing Simmons' lawsuit to move forward.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://sports.yahoo.com/amphtml/tracking-richard-simmons-car-not-212106843.html|title=Tracking Richard Simmons' Car is Not Free Speech, Court Rules|date=May 21, 2020|access-date=November 20, 2020|archive-date=January 26, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210126102856/https://sports.yahoo.com/amphtml/tracking-richard-simmons-car-not-212106843.html|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
In August 2022, in response to continued rumors and a ] documentary ''What Really Happened to Richard Simmons'' claiming that knee problems forced Simmons out of public life, Simmons issued a statement to the '']'' that he is "happy, healthy, and living the life he has chosen to live".<ref>{{cite web |date=August 26, 2022 |title=Richard Simmons breaks silence, tells The Post he's 'living the life he has chosen' |url=https://nypost.com/2022/08/26/richard-simmons-breaks-6-year-silence-after-bombshell-doc/ |access-date=August 27, 2022 |website=New York Post |language=en-US |archive-date=August 26, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220826233649/https://nypost.com/2022/08/26/richard-simmons-breaks-6-year-silence-after-bombshell-doc/ |url-status=live }}</ref> | |||
Teresa Reveles, who worked as Simmons' house manager and was often erroneously referred to as his housekeeper in news reports, said that Simmons retired due to failing knees which required surgery and made him unable to have the flexibility necessary to teach his fitness classes. He did not want to continue working if he was not able to fully perform up to expectations. Simmons was also nervous about aging, claiming to her that he did not "look that beautiful anymore". Even after he retreated from the public spotlight, he still frequently traveled outside of his house locally in disguises and continued to motivate fans by calling and emailing them as much as he could.<ref name=breakssilence/> He would donate to charities.<ref>{{cite web |date=August 16, 2024 |title=Richard Simmons was a Kiwanis Children's Fund donor |url=https://www.kiwanis.org/richard-simmons-was-a-kiwanis-childrens-fund-donor/ |access-date=October 24, 2024 |website=Kiwanis |language=en-US }}</ref> | |||
Two days before his death, Simmons had conducted his first interview in a significant amount of time with '']''. On his birthday, Simmons stated that he is grateful to be alive for another day and would spend his birthday helping people. Instead of cake, he stated he would have a candle on a zucchini, stating he is a vegetarian. He added, "Okay, fine. Maybe one Pepperidge Farm Milano cookie. But just one. Sure, once in a while, have dessert."<ref>{{cite magazine |last1=Sheeler |first1=Jason |last2=Lynn Shultz |first2=Cara |title=Richard Simmons Says He Is Celebrating His 76th Birthday with 'Candle on a Zucchini' (Exclusive) |url=https://people.com/richard-simmons-celebrating-76th-birthday-candle-on-zucchini-exclusive-8677078 |magazine=] |access-date=October 17, 2024}}</ref> He was also calling and motivating people again and writing a ] musical about his life in collaboration with composer Patrick Leonard, as well as planning for a longer comeback interview with ].<ref name=breakssilence/> | |||
== Illness and death == | |||
===Health=== | |||
In March 2024, Simmons issued a statement clarifying that he was not dying after a Facebook post he wrote encouraging people to "embrace every day" drew public concern. He also stated that he no longer had a manager or publicist, and that he had not given permission for a biopic of him.<ref>{{cite web | last=Bernabe | first=Angeline Jane | title=Richard Simmons apologizes for cryptic Facebook message: 'I am not dying' | website=ABC News | date=March 19, 2024 | url=https://abcnews.go.com/GMA/Culture/richard-simmons-apologizes-cryptic-facebook-message-dying/story?id=108260630 | access-date=March 19, 2024 | archive-date=March 19, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240319124002/https://abcnews.go.com/GMA/Culture/richard-simmons-apologizes-cryptic-facebook-message-dying/story?id=108260630 | url-status=live }}</ref> That same month, Simmons revealed that he had been diagnosed with ], located underneath his right eye. Simmons later stated on his Twitter account that the cancer diagnosis occurred "so many years ago" and he decided to speak out about it to encourage people to go to the doctor if they see anything unusual on their body.<ref>{{cite magazine |url=https://people.com/richard-simmons-reveals-moment-he-was-told-you-have-cancer-8611516|title=Richard Simmons, 75, Reveals He Has Skin Cancer Days After Posting About Dying|magazine=] |access-date=March 20, 2024|archive-date=March 20, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240320152943/https://people.com/richard-simmons-reveals-moment-he-was-told-you-have-cancer-8611516|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>Simmons, Richard (March 20, 2024). . ].</ref> | |||
===Death=== | |||
On July 13, 2024, Simmons died at his home in ] at the age of 76.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2024/07/13/arts/television/richard-simmons-dead.html|title=Richard Simmons, 'the Clown Prince of Fitness,' Dies at 76|work=]|date=July 13, 2024|accessdate=July 19, 2024}}</ref> He had suffered a fall at his home in his bathroom two days prior and refused to seek medical attention until the following morning out of a desire to spend his 76th birthday at home.<ref>{{cite magazine |last1=Sheeler |first1=Jason |title=Richard Simmons' Housekeeper of 35 Years Breaks Her Silence: 'He Died Happy' (Exclusive) |url=https://people.com/richard-simmons-housekeeper-of-35-years-breaks-her-silence-he-died-happy-8684764 |magazine=] |access-date=August 19, 2024}}</ref> He went to bed and the next day, he posted on social media that he never got so many birthday wishes. He was found by his long-time house manager Teresa Reveles the next day.<ref>{{cite magazine|url=https://people.com/richard-simmons-death-no-foul-played-involved-bathroom-fall-8680569|title=Richard Simmons' Death Involved No Foul Play: Source|magazine=]|accessdate=July 19, 2024|date=July 18, 2024}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.yahoo.com/entertainment/why-did-fitness-guru-richard-201527144.html|title=Why Did Fitness Guru Richard Simmons Turn Down Medical Attention After Bathroom Fall?|publisher=Yahoo|accessdate=July 19, 2024|date=July 15, 2024}}</ref> Police said that his death appeared to be from ], though the investigation is ongoing;<ref>{{cite web |date=July 13, 2024 |title=Richard Simmons, legendary fitness guru, dies at 76, representative confirms |url=https://abc7.com/post/richard-simmons-legendary-fitness-guru-dies-76-representative/15056821/ |access-date=July 13, 2024 |website=ABC7 Los Angeles |language=en |archive-date=July 13, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240713210315/https://abc7.com/post/richard-simmons-legendary-fitness-guru-dies-76-representative/15056821/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Osborne |first=Mark |date=July 13, 2024 |title=Fitness guru Richard Simmons dead at 76 |url=https://abcnews.go.com/US/fitness-guru-richard-simmons-dead-76/story?id=111912398 |access-date=July 13, 2024 |website=ABC News |language=en}}</ref> Reveles suspected that Simmons had suffered a heart attack in his sleep.<ref name=breakssilence>{{cite magazine |last1=Sheeler |first1=Jason |title=Richard Simmons' Housekeeper of 35 Years Breaks Her Silence: 'He Died Happy' (Exclusive) |url=https://people.com/richard-simmons-housekeeper-of-35-years-breaks-her-silence-he-died-happy-8684764 |magazine=] |language=en}}</ref> He was buried at ], dressed in his trademark fitness outfit.<ref></ref> On August 21, in a report given to Simmons' brother, the Los Angeles County Coroner's office confirmed that Simmons had died of complications of the previous day's fall, among others, and that heart disease was a contributing factor; no unprescribed drugs had been in his system when he died.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.yahoo.com/entertainment/richard-simmons-brother-reveals-exercise-191748567.html|title=Richard Simmons' Brother Reveals Late Exercise Guru's Cause of Death|publisher=Yahoo|date=August 21, 2024|accessdate=August 21, 2024}}</ref> | |||
On July 20, one week after his death, Simmons' team shared what would be his final social media post, a paraphrase of lyrics from the song "]".<ref>{{cite web|url=https://deadline.com/2024/07/richard-simmons-team-shares-final-prepared-social-media-post-1236016764/|title=Richard Simmons' Team Shares His Final Prepared Social Media Post 1 Week After Death|first=Glenn|last=Garner|website=Deadline Hollywood|date=July 21, 2024|accessdate=July 22, 2024}}</ref> On October 5, a memorial mass for Simmons was held at ] in ], ].<ref>{{cite web |last1=Brasted |first1=Chelsea |last2=Wells |first2=Carlie |title=Richard Simmons memorial |url=https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/2024/09/26/richard-simmons-memorial |website=axios.com/local/new-orleans |publisher=Axios New Orleans |access-date=4 October 2024}}</ref> | |||
==Print and other media== | |||
{{more citations needed section|date=July 2024}} | |||
===Books=== | |||
<!-- ISSN/ISBNs needed --> | |||
{{div col|colwidth=20em}} | |||
* ''Never Say Diet''<ref>{{cite book|title=Never Say Diet|first=Richard|last=Simmons|author-link=Richard Simmons|publisher=]|location=New York City|year=1980|isbn=978-0446512091}}</ref> | |||
* ''Never Say Diet Cookbook''<ref>{{cite book|title=Never Say Diet Cookbook|first=Richard|last=Simmons|author-link=Richard Simmons|publisher=]|location=New York City|year=1982|isbn=978-0446512435|url=https://archive.org/details/richardsimmonsne198200simm}}</ref> | |||
* ''The Better Body Book''<ref>{{cite book|title=The Better Body Book|first=Richard|last=Simmons|author-link=Richard Simmons|edition=1st|publisher=]|location=New York City|year=1985|isbn=978-0446512633|url=https://archive.org/details/richardsimmonsbe00simm}}</ref> | |||
* ''Deal-A-Meal Cookbook''<ref>{{cite book|url=https://www.amazon.com/Richard-Simmons-Deal-Meal-Cookbook/dp/B000OU9CIM|title=Deal-A-Meal Cookbook|first=Richard|last=Simmons|author-link=Richard Simmons|edition=]|publisher=Deal-a-meal, Inc|location=]|year=1987|asin=B00071E0XA|access-date=March 7, 2017|archive-date=March 7, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170307205114/https://www.amazon.com/Richard-Simmons-Deal-Meal-Cookbook/dp/B000OU9CIM|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
* ''Reach for Fitness: A Special Book of Exercises for the Physically Challenged''<ref>{{cite book|title=Reach for Fitness: A Special Book of Exercises for the Physically Challenged|first=Richard|last=Simmons|author-link=Richard Simmons|edition=1st|publisher=]|location=New York City|year=1986|isbn=978-0446513029|url=https://archive.org/details/reachforfitnesss00simm}}</ref> | |||
* ''Richard Simmons' Never Give Up: Inspirations, Reflections, Stories of Hope''<ref>{{cite book|title=Richard Simmons' Never Give Up: Inspirations, Reflections, Stories of Hope|first=Richard|last=Simmons|author-link=Richard Simmons|edition=1st|publisher=]|location=New York City|year=1993|isbn=978-0446517034|url=https://archive.org/details/richardsimmonsne00simm_0}}</ref> | |||
* ''Farewell to Fat''<ref>{{cite book|title=Farewell to Fat|first=Richard|last=Simmons|author-link=Richard Simmons|edition=1st|publisher=GT Publishing Corporation|location=New York City|year=1996|isbn=978-1577191025|url=https://archive.org/details/richardsimmonsfasim00simm}}</ref> | |||
* ''Sweetie Pie: The Richard Simmons Private Collection of Dazzling Desserts''<ref>{{cite book|title=Sweetie Pie: The Richard Simmons Private Collection of Dazzling Desserts|first=Richard|last=Simmons|author-link=Richard Simmons|edition=1st|publisher=GT Publishing Corporation|location=New York City|year=1997|isbn=978-1577192763|url=https://archive.org/details/sweetiepierichar00simm}}</ref> | |||
* ''Still Hungry After All These Years: My Story''<ref name="Still Hungry">{{cite book|title=Still Hungry After All These Years: My Story|url=https://archive.org/details/stillhungryafter00simm|url-access=registration|first=Richard|last=Simmons|author-link=Richard Simmons|edition=1st|publisher=GT Publishing Corporation|location=New York City|year=1999|isbn=978-1577193562}}</ref> | |||
* ''The Food Mover Cookbook''<ref>{{cite book|url=https://archive.org/details/richardsimmonsfo00simm|title=The Food Mover Cookbook|first=Richard|last=Simmons|author-link=Richard Simmons|edition=]|publisher=GT Publishing Corporation|location=New York City|year=1999|isbn=978-1577197591}}</ref> | |||
* ''Cookin' on Broadway''<ref>{{cite book|url=https://www.amazon.com/Cookin-Broadway-Richard-Simmons/dp/B001TNS414|title=Cookin' on Broadway|first=Richard|last=Simmons|author-link=Richard Simmons|edition=]|publisher=GT Publishing Corporation|location=New York City|year=2000|asin=B001TNS414|access-date=March 7, 2017|archive-date=March 7, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170307204350/https://www.amazon.com/Cookin-Broadway-Richard-Simmons/dp/B001TNS414|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
* ''Steam Away the Pounds''<ref>{{cite book|title=Steam Away the Pounds|first=Richard|last=Simmons|author-link=Richard Simmons|publisher=Pascoe Publishing, Inc|location=]|year=2006|isbn=978-1929862610}}</ref> | |||
{{Div col end}} | |||
===Audio=== | |||
====Analog compact cassette==== | |||
{{Div col|colwidth=20em}} | |||
* ''Project Me'' (six-tape set)<ref>{{cite AV media|url=https://www.amazon.com/Project-Motivational-Tapes-Richard-Simmons/dp/B000GE9Y5W|title=Project Me|first=Richard|last=Simmons|author-link=Richard Simmons|medium=]|publisher=Deal-a-meal, Inc|location=Beverly Hills, California|year=1991|asin=B000GE9Y5W|access-date=March 7, 2017|archive-date=March 8, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170308133800/https://www.amazon.com/Project-Motivational-Tapes-Richard-Simmons/dp/B000GE9Y5W|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
* ''Take a Walk''<ref>{{cite AV media|url=https://www.amazon.com/Richard-Simmons-Fitness-Walking-Program/dp/B000KMHGCI|title=Take a Walk|first=Richard|last=Simmons|author-link=Richard Simmons|medium=]|publisher=Deal-a-meal, Inc|location=Beverly Hills, California|year=1991|asin=B000KMHGCI|access-date=March 7, 2017|archive-date=March 8, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170308134047/https://www.amazon.com/Richard-Simmons-Fitness-Walking-Program/dp/B000KMHGCI|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
* ''Take a Hike''<ref>{{cite AV media|url=https://www.amazon.com/Take-Walk-Hike-Richard-Simmons/dp/B000YQLSN8|first=Richard|last=Simmons|author-link=Richard Simmons|medium=]|title=Take a Hike|publisher=Deal-a-meal, Inc|location=Beverly Hills, California|year=1991|asin=B000YQLSN8|access-date=March 7, 2017|archive-date=March 8, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170308044532/https://www.amazon.com/Take-Walk-Hike-Richard-Simmons/dp/B000YQLSN8|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
* ''Sweatin' and Sharin With Richard Simmons & Friends''<ref>{{cite AV media|url=https://www.amazon.com/Sweatin-Sharin-Richard-Simmons-Friends/dp/B000GYZC8K|title=Sweatin' and Sharin' With Richard Simmons & Friends|first=Richard|last=Simmons|author-link=Richard Simmons|medium=]|publisher=GT Publishing Corporation|location=New York City|year=1994|asin=B000GYZC8K|access-date=March 7, 2017|archive-date=March 8, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170308044816/https://www.amazon.com/Sweatin-Sharin-Richard-Simmons-Friends/dp/B000GYZC8K|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
* ''Walk Across America''<ref>{{cite AV media|url=https://www.amazon.com/Richard-Simmons-Across-America-AUDIOBOOK/dp/B000P527CE|title=Walk Across America|first=Richard|last=Simmons|author-link=Richard Simmons|medium=]|publisher=GT Publishing Corporation|location=New York City|year=1995|asin=B000P527CE|access-date=March 7, 2017|archive-date=March 8, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170308134039/https://www.amazon.com/Richard-Simmons-Across-America-AUDIOBOOK/dp/B000P527CE|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
* ''Colors of Your Life'' (single tape)<ref>{{cite AV media|url=https://www.amazon.com/Colors-Your-Life-RICHARD-SIMMONS/dp/B000F3R72G|title=Colors of Your Life|first=Richard|last=Simmons|author-link=Richard Simmons|medium=]|publisher=The Richard Simmons Living Trust|location=Beverly Hills, California|year=1998|asin=B000F3R72G|access-date=March 7, 2017|archive-date=March 8, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170308134042/https://www.amazon.com/Colors-Your-Life-RICHARD-SIMMONS/dp/B000F3R72G|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
* ''Colors of Your Life'' (six tape set)<ref>{{cite AV media|url=https://www.amazon.com/Richard-Simmons-Colors-Audio-Collection/dp/B0009WPKQ8|title=Colors of Your Life|first=Richard|last=Simmons|author-link=Richard Simmons|medium=]|publisher=The Richard Simmons Living Trust|location=Beverly Hills, California|year=1998|asin=B0009WPKQ8|access-date=March 7, 2017|archive-date=March 8, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170308044721/https://www.amazon.com/Richard-Simmons-Colors-Audio-Collection/dp/B0009WPKQ8|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
* ''Secrets of the Winners'' (single tape)<ref>{{cite AV media|url=https://www.amazon.com/Richard-Simmons-Secrets-Winners/dp/B0002JL96I|title=Secrets of the Winners|first=Richard|last=Simmons|author-link=Richard Simmons|medium=]|publisher=The Richard Simmons Living Trust|location=Beverly Hills, California|year=1998|asin=B0002JL96I}}</ref> | |||
* ''Take a Classical Walk'' | * ''Take a Classical Walk'' | ||
* ''Walkin' on Broadway'' | * ''Walkin' on Broadway'' | ||
* ''Walk Around the World'' | * ''Walk Around the World'' | ||
* ''Never Give Up: Inspirations, Reflections, Stories of Hope'' (book on tape, read by Simmons)<ref>{{cite AV media|url=https://www.amazon.com/Richard-Simmons-Never-Give-Inspirations/dp/1559272198|title=Never Give Up: Inspirations, Reflections, Stories of Hope|edition=Abridged|first=Richard|last=Simmons|author-link=Richard Simmons|medium=]|publisher=]|location=Southfield, Michigan|year=1993|isbn=978-1559272193|access-date=March 8, 2017|archive-date=March 8, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170308223422/https://www.amazon.com/Richard-Simmons-Never-Give-Inspirations/dp/1559272198|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
* ''Never Give Up'' (book on tape, read by Simmons) | |||
{{Div col end}} | |||
==== |
====Compact disc==== | ||
{{Div col|colwidth=20em}} | |||
* ''Richard Picks the Hits, Volume 1'' | * ''Richard Picks the Hits, Volume 1'' | ||
* ''Richard Picks the Hits, Volume 2'' | * ''Richard Picks the Hits, Volume 2'' | ||
* ''Country Cardio'' | * ''Country Cardio'' | ||
* ''Oh Happy Day''<ref>{{cite AV media|url=https://www.amazon.com/Richard-Simmons-Happy-Day-Simmons/dp/B000DGY0C0|title=Oh Happy Day|first=Richard|last=Simmons|author-link=Richard Simmons|medium=]|work=]|publisher=]|location=Austin, Texas|date=January 3, 2006|access-date=March 7, 2017|asin=B000DGY0C0|archive-date=March 8, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170308044250/https://www.amazon.com/Richard-Simmons-Happy-Day-Simmons/dp/B000DGY0C0|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
* ''Oh Happy Day'' | |||
* ''Fitness Fiesta'' | * ''Fitness Fiesta'' | ||
* ''Wicked Workout''<ref>{{cite AV media|url=https://www.amazon.com/Richard-Simmons-Wicked-Workout-Simmons/dp/B000DGY0CK|title=Wicked Workout|medium=]|date=January 3, 2006|work=]|publisher=]|location=Austin, Texas|access-date=March 8, 2017|asin=B000DGY0CK|archive-date=March 8, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170308220959/https://www.amazon.com/Richard-Simmons-Wicked-Workout-Simmons/dp/B000DGY0CK|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
* ''Wicked Workout'' | |||
* ''Big Screen Burn'' | * ''Big Screen Burn'' | ||
* ''Shimmy |
* ''Shimmy into Shape'' | ||
* ''In the Mood to Lose'' | * ''In the Mood to Lose'' | ||
* ''Classical Chillout'' | * ''Classical Chillout'' | ||
{{Div col end}} | |||
==== |
====Vinyl record==== | ||
* ''Reach'' (], 1982) – AUS No. 12<ref name=aus>{{cite book|last=Kent|first=David|author-link=David Kent (historian)|title=Australian Chart Book 1970–1992|edition=illustrated|publisher=Australian Chart Book|location=St Ives, N.S.W.|year=1993|isbn=0-646-11917-6|page=274}}</ref> | |||
* ''Reach'' (Elektra Records) (vinyl) | |||
=== |
====Singles==== | ||
* ''This Time'' (Elektra Records, 45 rpm 1983) | |||
==== DVDs ==== | |||
* ''Richard Simmons and the Silver Foxes'' | |||
====Digital compact cassette==== | |||
* ''Disco Sweat'' | |||
* ''Colors of Your Life (single tape)'' (Goodtimes Entertainment, BASF 90 Min. 1998) | |||
===Visual media=== | |||
====DVD==== | |||
{{Div col|colwidth=15em}} | |||
* ''Richard Simmons and the Silver Foxes''<ref>{{cite AV media|url=https://www.amazon.com/Richard-Simmons-Silver-Foxes/dp/B0004Z32ME|title=Richard Simmons and the Silver Foxes|medium=DVD|work=]|publisher=]|location=Burbank, California|date=December 14, 2004|access-date=March 8, 2017|asin=B0004Z32ME|archive-date=March 9, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170309060401/https://www.amazon.com/Richard-Simmons-Silver-Foxes/dp/B0004Z32ME|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
* ''Latin Blast Off'' | |||
* ''Mega Mix Blast Off'' | |||
* ''Mega Mix 2 Blast Off'' | |||
* ''Disco Blast Off'' | |||
* '' '60s Blast Off'' | |||
* '' '80s Blast Off'' | |||
* ''Blast and Tone'' | |||
* ''Disco Sweat''<ref>{{cite AV media|url=https://www.amazon.com/Richard-Simmons-Disco-Sweat/dp/B0000541WK|title=Disco Sweat|medium=DVD|work=]|publisher=]|location=Universal City, California|date=April 9, 2002|access-date=March 8, 2017|asin=B0000541WK|archive-date=March 8, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170308221456/https://www.amazon.com/Richard-Simmons-Disco-Sweat/dp/B0000541WK|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
* ''SuperSweatin': Party Off the Pounds'' | * ''SuperSweatin': Party Off the Pounds'' | ||
* ''SuperTonin': Totally Tonin'' | * ''SuperTonin': Totally Tonin'' | ||
* ''SuperTonin': Totally Tonin' with Toning Rings'' | * ''SuperTonin': Totally Tonin' with Toning Rings'' | ||
* ''Sit Tight'' | |||
* ''Sweatin' to the Oldies''<ref>{{cite AV media|url=https://www.amazon.com/Sweatin-Oldies-Vol-Richard-Simmons/dp/B001U2QEP2|title=Sweatin' to the Oldies|medium=DVD|work=]|publisher=]|location=New York City|date=March 14, 2008|access-date=March 8, 2017|asin=B001U2QEP2|archive-date=March 8, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170308220808/https://www.amazon.com/Sweatin-Oldies-Vol-Richard-Simmons/dp/B001U2QEP2|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
* ''Sweatin' to the Oldies 2''<ref>{{cite AV media|url=https://www.amazon.com/Richard-Simmons-Sweatin-Oldies-Vol/dp/B0017HEYGG|title=Sweatin' to the Oldies 2|medium=DVD|work=]|publisher=]|location=New York City|date=June 3, 2008|access-date=March 8, 2017|asin=B0017HEYGG|archive-date=March 8, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170308223731/https://www.amazon.com/Richard-Simmons-Sweatin-Oldies-Vol/dp/B0017HEYGG|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
* ''Sweatin' to the Oldies 3''<ref>{{cite AV media|url=https://www.amazon.com/Richard-Simmons-Sweatin-Oldies-3/dp/B003RLNW3G|title=Sweatin' to the Oldies 3|medium=DVD|work=]|publisher=]|location=New York City|date=January 1, 2007|access-date=March 8, 2017|asin=B003RLNW3G|archive-date=March 8, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170308220022/https://www.amazon.com/Richard-Simmons-Sweatin-Oldies-3/dp/B003RLNW3G|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
* ''Sweatin' to the Oldies 4''<ref>{{cite AV media|url=https://www.amazon.com/Sweatin-Oldies-Vol-20-Years/dp/B000Z8H1ZE|title=Sweatin' to the Oldies 4|medium=DVD|work=]|publisher=]|location=New York City|date=April 9, 2013|access-date=March 8, 2017|asin=B000Z8H1ZE|archive-date=March 8, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170308223602/https://www.amazon.com/Sweatin-Oldies-Vol-20-Years/dp/B000Z8H1ZE|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
* ''Sweatin' to the Oldies 5''<ref>{{cite AV media|url=https://www.amazon.com/Sweatin-Oldies-5-Richard-Simmons/dp/B003KIAWOS|title=Sweatin' to the Oldies 5|medium=DVD|work=]|publisher=]|location=New York City|date=December 14, 2010|access-date=March 8, 2017|asin=B003KIAWOS|archive-date=March 8, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170308222646/https://www.amazon.com/Sweatin-Oldies-5-Richard-Simmons/dp/B003KIAWOS|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
* ''Love Yourself and Win'' | |||
* ''Boogie Down the Pounds'' | |||
* ''Tonin' to the Oldies'' | |||
* "Richard Simmons Project H.O.P.E. – Health, Optimism, Passion, Energy" | |||
{{Div col end}} | |||
==== |
====Video cassette==== | ||
{{Div col|colwidth=15em}} | |||
* ''Everyday with Richard Simmons'' | * ''Everyday with Richard Simmons'' | ||
* ''The Stomach Formula'' | * ''The Stomach Formula'' | ||
* ''Get Started'' | * ''Get Started'' | ||
* ''Reach for Fitness – A Special Video of Exercises for the Physically Challenged''<ref>{{cite AV media|url=https://www.amazon.com/Reach-Fitness-Exercises-Physically-Challenged/dp/B00000680E|title=Reach for Fitness – A Special Video of Exercises for the Physically Challenged|date=November 15, 1994|medium=]|asin=B00000680E|work=Gt Media, Inc.|publisher=GT Publishing Corporation|location=New York City|access-date=March 7, 2017|archive-date=March 7, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170307205552/https://www.amazon.com/Reach-Fitness-Exercises-Physically-Challenged/dp/B00000680E|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
* ''Reach for Fitness'' | |||
* ''Deal Your Way to Health'' | |||
* ''Richard Simmons and the Silver Foxes'' | * ''Richard Simmons and the Silver Foxes'' | ||
* ''Sweatin' to the Oldies'' | * ''Sweatin' to the Oldies'' | ||
* ''Sweatin' to the Oldies 2'' | * ''Sweatin' to the Oldies 2'' | ||
* ''Sweatin' to the Oldies 3''<ref>{{cite AV media|url=https://www.amazon.com/Richard-Simmons-Sweatin-Oldies-Vol/dp/B00005T33C|title=Sweatin' to the Oldies 3|medium=]|work=]|publisher=]|location=New York City|date=December 11, 2001|access-date=March 8, 2017|asin=B00005T33C|archive-date=March 8, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170308222019/https://www.amazon.com/Richard-Simmons-Sweatin-Oldies-Vol/dp/B00005T33C|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
* ''Sweatin' to the Oldies 3'' | |||
* '' |
* ''Sweatin' to the Oldies 4'' | ||
* ''Day By Day'' (Volumes |
* ''Day By Day'' (Volumes 1–12) | ||
* ''Pump and Sweat'' | * ''Pump and Sweat'' | ||
* ''Step and Sweat'' | * ''Step and Sweat'' | ||
* ''Tone and Sweat'' | * ''Tone and Sweat'' | ||
* ''Disco Sweat'' | |||
* ''Stretchin' to the Classics'' | * ''Stretchin' to the Classics'' | ||
* ''Dance Your Pants Off!'' | * ''Dance Your Pants Off!'' | ||
Line 150: | Line 219: | ||
* ''Love to Stretch'' | * ''Love to Stretch'' | ||
* ''Blast Off'' | * ''Blast Off'' | ||
* ''Broadway Sweat''<ref>{{cite AV media|url=https://www.amazon.com/Richard-Simmons-Broadway-Aerobic-Musical/dp/B0001LWYDE|title=Broadway Sweat|medium=]|work=]|publisher=]|location=New York City|date=January 1, 2000|access-date=March 7, 2017|asin=B0001LWYDE|archive-date=March 8, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170308044246/https://www.amazon.com/Richard-Simmons-Broadway-Aerobic-Musical/dp/B0001LWYDE|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
* ''Broadway Sweat'' | |||
* ''Tone Up On Broadway'' | * ''Tone Up On Broadway'' | ||
* ''Broadway Blast Off'' | * ''Broadway Blast Off'' | ||
* ''Platinum Sweat'' | * ''Platinum Sweat'' | ||
* ''Sit Tight'' | * ''Sit Tight'' | ||
* ''Latin Blast Off'' |
* ''Latin Blast Off'' | ||
* ''Mega Mix Blast Off'' | * ''Mega Mix Blast Off'' | ||
* ''Mega Mix 2 Blast Off'' | * ''Mega Mix 2 Blast Off'' | ||
Line 162: | Line 231: | ||
* ''80's Blast Off'' | * ''80's Blast Off'' | ||
* ''Blast and Tone'' | * ''Blast and Tone'' | ||
* ''Farewell to Fat''<ref>{{cite AV media|url=https://www.amazon.com/Reach-Fitness-Exercises-Physically-Challenged/dp/B00000680E|title=Farewell to Fat|date=December 1, 1998|medium=]|asin=B00000G3CA|work=]|publisher=]|location=Burbank, California|access-date=March 7, 2017|archive-date=March 7, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170307205552/https://www.amazon.com/Reach-Fitness-Exercises-Physically-Challenged/dp/B00000680E|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
* ''Disco Sweat'' | |||
* ''Sudar Mucho'' | |||
{{Div col end}} | |||
====YouTube==== | |||
* ''Fit to Fly'' | |||
* ''Hair Do'' (Official Music Video)<ref>{{cite AV media|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=XEbVq8pb3QE|title=YouTube video – Hair Do (Official Music Video)|date=August 22, 2013|access-date=February 23, 2019|archive-date=April 15, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230415142017/https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=XEbVq8pb3QE|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
====Television/movies==== | |||
{{Div col|colwidth=15em}} | |||
* ''The Richard Simmons Show'' | |||
* '']'' | |||
* '']'' | |||
* '']''<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0616712/|title=Get Shovelized/T Is for Trouble|date=July 9, 2004|publisher=IMDb|access-date=July 13, 2024|archive-date=April 5, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230405083206/https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0616712/|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
* '']'' | |||
* '']'' | |||
* '']'' | |||
* '']'' | |||
* '']'' | |||
* '']'' | |||
* '']'' | |||
* '']'' | |||
* '']'' | |||
* '']'' | |||
* '']'' | |||
* '']'' | |||
* '']'' | |||
* '']'' | |||
* ''Richard Simmons Dream Maker'' | |||
* '']'' | |||
* '']'' | |||
* '']'' | |||
* '']'' | |||
* '']'' | |||
* '']'' | |||
* '']'' | |||
{{div col end}} | |||
==References== | ==References== | ||
{{reflist}} | |||
<div class="references-small"> | |||
<references /> | |||
==Further reading== | |||
</div> | |||
{{Refbegin}} | |||
* {{cite web | last=Bregel | first=Sarah | title=Richard Simmons has been trying to live a private life since 2014, but the entertainment industry won't let him | work=BBC Home | date=January 19, 2024 | url=https://www.bbc.com/culture/article/20240119-richard-simmons-has-been-trying-to-live-a-private-life-since-2014-but-the-entertainment-industry-wont-let-him | access-date=January 20, 2024 | archive-date=January 19, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240119235157/https://www.bbc.com/culture/article/20240119-richard-simmons-has-been-trying-to-live-a-private-life-since-2014-but-the-entertainment-industry-wont-let-him | url-status=live }} | |||
* {{cite web |url=http://www.quickanded.com/2007/11/were-leaving-our-childrens-behinds.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071111120734/http://www.quickanded.com/2007/11/were-leaving-our-childrens-behinds.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=November 11, 2007 |title='We're Leaving Our Children's Behinds Behind'—An Interview with Richard Simmons |last1=Carey |first1=Kevin |date=November 7, 2007 |website=The Quick and the Ed |publisher=] }} | |||
* {{cite news |last=Davis |first=David |date=November 27, 2012 |title=Still Richard: Richard Simmons keeps grooving at 64 |url=https://www.sbnation.com/longform/2012/11/27/3692806/richard-simmons-still-grooving-at-64 |website=] |access-date=December 11, 2017 |archive-date=October 24, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161024224923/http://www.sbnation.com/longform/2012/11/27/3692806/richard-simmons-still-grooving-at-64 |url-status=live }} | |||
* {{cite news |last=Hellmich |first=Nanci |date=July 22, 2008 |title=7/22/2008 |url=http://usatoday30.usatoday.com/news/health/weightloss/2008-07-22-richard-simmons-hearing_N.htm |newspaper=] |access-date=December 2, 2013 |archive-date=December 3, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131203143538/http://usatoday30.usatoday.com/news/health/weightloss/2008-07-22-richard-simmons-hearing_N.htm |url-status=live }} | |||
* {{Cite episode|title=Fitness Guru Takes Message to Congress|url=https://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=92730429|series=Tell Me More|series-link=Tell Me More|first=Martin|last=Michel|network=]|date=July 21, 2008|access-date=April 4, 2018|archive-date=October 24, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161024221631/http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=92730429|url-status=live}} | |||
* {{cite web|url=http://www.canada.com/topics/bodyandhealth/dietandfitness/story.html?id=36d29682-39e5-4c64-96ac-cd636b6b3446&k=10013|title=Love yourself, lose weight|author=Staff|date=March 13, 2006|publisher=Canada.com|access-date=February 27, 2017|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304025609/http://www.canada.com/topics/bodyandhealth/dietandfitness/story.html?id=36d29682-39e5-4c64-96ac-cd636b6b3446&k=10013|archive-date=March 4, 2016}} | |||
* {{cite news|url=http://blogs.edweek.org/edweek/NCLB-ActII/2007/08/_in_my_11_years.html|title=Richard Simmons: Fit Kids Are Smart Kids|author=Staff|date=August 24, 2007|website=]|publisher=Editorial Projects in Education|access-date=November 29, 2013|archive-date=October 22, 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071022223712/http://blogs.edweek.org/edweek/NCLB-ActII/2007/08/_in_my_11_years.html|url-status=live}} | |||
* {{cite interview|url=http://sidewalkstv.com/webclips/s/richardsimmons.html|interviewer=Cindy Rhodes|title=Staying fit with the one and only fitness guru, Richard Simmons!|date=June 2006|publisher=]|access-date=February 27, 2017|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161024224039/http://sidewalkstv.com/webclips/s/richardsimmons.html|archive-date=October 24, 2016}} | |||
{{Refend}} | |||
==External links== | ==External links== | ||
{{commons category|Richard Simmons}} | |||
* | |||
* {{imdb name|id=0799873|name=Richard Simmons}} | |||
* {{official website|https://richardsimmons.com/}} | |||
* at ] | |||
* {{IMDb name|0799873|Richard Simmons}} | |||
* on '']'' | |||
* {{discogs artist|Richard Simmons}} | |||
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Latest revision as of 03:41, 3 December 2024
American fitness personality (1948–2024) "Sweatin' to the Oldies" redirects here. For The Vandals album, see Sweatin' to the Oldies: The Vandals Live. For other people named Richard Simmons, see Richard Simmons (disambiguation).
Richard Simmons | |
---|---|
Simmons in 1998 | |
Born | Milton Teagle Simmons (1948-07-12)July 12, 1948 New Orleans, Louisiana, U.S. |
Died | July 13, 2024(2024-07-13) (aged 76) Los Angeles, California, U.S. |
Resting place | Pierce Brothers Westwood Village Memorial Park and Mortuary, Los Angeles |
Alma mater | University of Louisiana at Lafayette Florida State University (BA) |
Occupations |
|
Years active | 1968–2014 |
Website | richardsimmons |
Milton Teagle "Richard" Simmons (July 12, 1948 – July 13, 2024) was an American fitness instructor and television personality. He was a promoter of weight-loss programs, most prominently through his television show, The Richard Simmons Show and later the Sweatin' to the Oldies line of aerobics videos.
Simmons began his weight-loss career by opening his gym Slimmons in Beverly Hills, California, catering to the overweight in a supportive atmosphere, and he became widely known through exposure on television and through the popularity of his consumer products. He was often parodied and was a frequent guest on late-night television and radio talk shows, such as the Late Show with David Letterman and The Howard Stern Show.
He continued to promote health and exercise through a decades-long career, and later broadened his activities to include political activism, such as in 2008 in support of a bill mandating non-competitive physical education in public schools as a part of the No Child Left Behind Act.
Early life
Milton Teagle Simmons was born in New Orleans, Louisiana on July 12, 1948 to Leonard Douglas Simmons, Sr. and Shirley May (née Satin). He was born to "show-business parents" and raised in the French Quarter of New Orleans. Simmons had an older brother. Their father was raised Methodist and worked as a master of ceremonies and later in thrift stores while their mother was Russian Jewish and was a traveling fan dancer and later a store cosmetics saleswoman.
Simmons became a practicing Catholic in adolescence and attended Cor Jesu High School. He attended the University of Louisiana at Lafayette before graduating from Florida State University with a Bachelor of Arts in art.
He became obese during his early childhood and adolescence. He began to overeat and became overweight as early as the age of 4 and by the age of 5, he knew it was perceived negatively. At the age of 15, he weighed 182 pounds (83 kg). As a young man, he considered being a priest. As a young art student, he appeared among the "freak show" characters in the Fellini films Satyricon (1968) and The Clowns (1970) and he eventually reached a peak of 268 lb (122 kg).
In an interview with the Tampa Bay Times, Simmons explained he adopted the name Richard after an uncle who paid for his college tuition. His first job in New Orleans was as a child, selling pralines at Leah's Pralines.
Career
Fitness career
Upon moving to Los Angeles in the 1970s, Simmons worked as the maître d'hôtel at Derek's, a restaurant in Beverly Hills. He developed an interest in fitness. Exercise studios of the day favored the already fit customer, so little help was available for those who needed to gain fitness from an otherwise unhealthy state. He established gyms and his interest in fitness helped him lose 123 lb (56 kg).
He opened his own exercise studio, originally called The Anatomy Asylum, where emphasis was placed on healthy eating in proper portions and enjoyable exercise in a supportive atmosphere. The business originally included a salad bar restaurant called Ruffage, a pun on the word roughage (dietary fiber); though it was eventually removed as the focus of The Anatomy Asylum shifted solely to exercise. Later renamed Slimmons, the establishment continued operations in Beverly Hills and Simmons taught motivational classes and aerobics throughout the week. His success led to a recurring role in General Hospital portraying himself over a four-year period and then to his own television series The Richard Simmons Show, which aired from 1980 to 1984 and earned him multiple Emmy awards. Rising interest in aerobics during the 1980s led to the popularization of Simmons' line of fitness videos, particularly his Sweatin' to the Oldies series, which became one of the most popular videos during the decade.
In 2010, Simmons stated he had maintained his own 100+ pound (45 kg) weight loss for 42 years, had been helping others lose weight for 35 years, and that in the course of his fitness career, had helped humanity lose approximately 12 million pounds (5.5 million kg).
In media
Simmons began to receive media attention due to the success of his health club that started with him on Real People (where he was shown at work). He introduced customers whom he had helped to lose weight. He later had guest roles on Battlestars, Super Password, Win, Lose or Draw, Body Language, Match Game (ABC), Hollywood Squares (syndicated), and Nickelodeon's Figure It Out. Positive viewer reactions landed Simmons a recurring role as himself in General Hospital over a four-year period. This, as well as being in shopping malls (where he taught exercise classes), led to further media attention. In the early 1980s, Simmons hosted two shows — Slim Cookin and the Emmy Award-winning talk show The Richard Simmons Show, in which he focused on personal health, fitness, exercise, and healthy cooking.
Simmons portrayed himself in the Amazing Stories episode "Remote Control Man". Simmons was a guest on The Rosie O'Donnell Show on November 18, 1997, together with Celine Dion. He was a frequent guest on The Howard Stern Show, his last appearance coming in 2013.
Simmons was also a guest on Late Night with David Letterman (NBC) and the Late Show with David Letterman (CBS), but on November 22, 2000, they had a falling-out after an incident on that night's show. Simmons (while dressed as a turkey) grabbed Letterman as if to hug or kiss him, to which Letterman responded by spraying Simmons with a fire extinguisher, which made Simmons have a severe asthma attack. Simmons did not appear on the Letterman show for six years, finally returning on November 29, 2006. During that time, Letterman once again set Simmons up for a prank; while Simmons was demonstrating a steamer branded with his name, Letterman insisted on placing a tray under the steamer which Simmons did not believe belonged there. When Simmons turned the steamer on, something in the tray exploded and caught fire, sending Simmons running for his life. Despite the scare, Simmons took the incident in fairly good nature, even joking that he "felt like Michael Jackson" (referring to a mishap where Jackson's hair was accidentally set on fire by pyrotechnics while filming a Pepsi commercial).
In 1998, Simmons provided the voice of Boone in Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Movie. He featured as himself on numerous television series, including Whose Line Is It Anyway?, CHiPs, Saturday Night Live, The Larry Sanders Show, and in the Arrested Development episode "Bringing Up Buster". In 1999, he hosted the short-lived television series DreamMaker. On January 14, 2000, Simmons and Tribune Entertainment parted ways, following low ratings. In 2007, he filmed the PBS pledge-drive special Love Yourself and Win.
He also featured in television advertisements for Sprint, Yoplait, and Herbal Essence shampoos. In late 2007, he was in a This is SportsCenter commercial on ESPN as the show's "conditioning coach". In the Rocko's Modern Life episode "No Pain, No Gain", Simmons voiced an exercise trainer bearing his animated likeness, leading a class filled with large, anthropomorphic animals.
Simmons appeared multiple times on The Glenn Beck Program on HLN. From 2006 to 2008, he hosted a radio show on Sirius Stars (Sirius Satellite Radio channel 102) titled Lighten Up with Richard Simmons. He provided the voice of Coach Salmons, a recurring character modeled after his own likeness, for Fish Hooks. In 2011, Simmons starred in "Fit to Fly with Richard Simmons", an Air New Zealand inflight safety briefing video modeled after his aerobic workouts. He is featured heavily in the film clip of "Hawker Boat" by Tobacco, taken from the album Fucked Up Friends.
During the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, Simmons' YouTube channel was updated with archival exercise videos (recorded before his decision to withdraw from public life) to help people stay fit at home. A spokesperson said the move was motivated by an "overwhelming request for Richard to return in some way as a comfort" and added that Simmons was "very touched by the outreach".
In January 2024, an as-yet untitled biopic about Simmons, starring Pauly Shore, was announced, titled The Court Jester. Simmons stated on Facebook, "I have never given my permission for this movie." In April, he said he was discussing giving his approval for a different biopic.
Personal life
Religion
Simmons became Catholic as a teenager, having first asked his parents if he could convert as a younger child. He attended church with his brother Lenny for years until being baptized and confirmed on the same day. He considered the priesthood for a time, but decided against it.
He lapsed as an older adult, but returned to the faith in his later years.
Personality
Simmons used his energetic, loud, and motivational demeanor to encourage people to lose weight. His high energy level was always featured in his workout videos. His trademark attire was tank tops decorated with Swarovski crystals and candy-striped Dolphin shorts.
Simmons interacted at a personal level with fans and people using his products. This began by personally answering fan mail he received as a cast member of General Hospital. As late as 2008, he personally answered emails and letters and made hundreds of phone calls each week to those who would seek his help.
He claimed to have few friends, saying, "I don't have a lot to offer to one person. I have a lot to offer to a lot of people." Aside from his six Dalmatians and two maids, Simmons lived alone in Beverly Hills, California. Although his persona inspired speculation about his sexual orientation, he never publicly addressed the subject. After his death in 2024, Jane Fonda stated she had last seen him for lunch at the Polo Lounge, when he was accompanied by his new boyfriend.
In a 2012 interview with Men's Health, he was quoted:
When the king gets depressed, he doesn't call for his wife or the cook. He turns to the little man with the pointed hat and says to the court jester "make me laugh". And I am that court jester.
— Richard Simmons, Men's Health
Hurricane Katrina response
In September 2005, Simmons appeared on Entertainment Tonight to discuss the effects of Hurricane Katrina on his family in his hometown of New Orleans, and his involvement in aiding those affected by the hurricane. On August 29, 2006, Simmons was on Your World with Neil Cavuto while making a return visit to New Orleans one year after the flooding, a visit he repeated on March 2, 2007, now talking about his recent trip to Washington, D.C., to promote and raise awareness about the Strengthening Physical Education Act of 2007 (H.R. 1224).
Retirement
After 2014, Simmons did not make any major public appearances. He stopped appearing in public altogether on February 15 of that year. In March 2016, speculation began that he was being held hostage by his housekeeper. In response, on March 14, Simmons gave an audio interview on The Today Show, denying the rumors and assuring the public that he is fine. In November 2016, the Simmons fitness gym closed without any public announcement from Simmons. In February 2017, the podcast Missing Richard Simmons launched, investigating why Simmons left public life so suddenly.
In March the same year, Los Angeles Police Department detectives visited Simmons' home to conduct a welfare check, issuing a statement that Simmons is "perfectly fine" and that "right now he is doing what he wants to do and it is his business". On April 19, following a hospitalization for severe indigestion, Simmons made his first public comment in over a year, posting on Facebook a photo of himself and the message "I'm not 'missing', just a little under the weather". However, the picture that was included in the post was from as far back as 2013, leading to speculation that the person who posted the message might not actually have been Simmons.
In May 2017, he sued the National Enquirer, Radar Online, and American Media, Inc. for libel and false claims that he was undergoing gender reassignment. In September 2017, Simmons lost the lawsuit and was ordered to pay the defendants' attorney's fees. The judge ruled, "because courts have long held that a misidentification of certain immutable characteristics do not naturally tend to injure one's reputation, even if there is sizeable portion of the population who hold prejudices against those characteristics, misidentification of a person as transgender is not actionable defamation absent special damages".
In June 2018, he sued a Los Angeles private investigator, claiming he had placed a tracking device over a year earlier on the only vehicle Simmons used for transportation, noting that such tracking is in violation of California law. In July 2018, Simmons amended the suit, alleging the investigator had been hired by In Touch Weekly and prosecutors filed a criminal complaint. In May 2020, a California appellate court upheld a trial judge's decision allowing Simmons' lawsuit to move forward.
In August 2022, in response to continued rumors and a TMZ documentary What Really Happened to Richard Simmons claiming that knee problems forced Simmons out of public life, Simmons issued a statement to the New York Post that he is "happy, healthy, and living the life he has chosen to live".
Teresa Reveles, who worked as Simmons' house manager and was often erroneously referred to as his housekeeper in news reports, said that Simmons retired due to failing knees which required surgery and made him unable to have the flexibility necessary to teach his fitness classes. He did not want to continue working if he was not able to fully perform up to expectations. Simmons was also nervous about aging, claiming to her that he did not "look that beautiful anymore". Even after he retreated from the public spotlight, he still frequently traveled outside of his house locally in disguises and continued to motivate fans by calling and emailing them as much as he could. He would donate to charities.
Two days before his death, Simmons had conducted his first interview in a significant amount of time with People. On his birthday, Simmons stated that he is grateful to be alive for another day and would spend his birthday helping people. Instead of cake, he stated he would have a candle on a zucchini, stating he is a vegetarian. He added, "Okay, fine. Maybe one Pepperidge Farm Milano cookie. But just one. Sure, once in a while, have dessert." He was also calling and motivating people again and writing a Broadway musical about his life in collaboration with composer Patrick Leonard, as well as planning for a longer comeback interview with Diane Sawyer.
Illness and death
Health
In March 2024, Simmons issued a statement clarifying that he was not dying after a Facebook post he wrote encouraging people to "embrace every day" drew public concern. He also stated that he no longer had a manager or publicist, and that he had not given permission for a biopic of him. That same month, Simmons revealed that he had been diagnosed with skin cancer, located underneath his right eye. Simmons later stated on his Twitter account that the cancer diagnosis occurred "so many years ago" and he decided to speak out about it to encourage people to go to the doctor if they see anything unusual on their body.
Death
On July 13, 2024, Simmons died at his home in Los Angeles at the age of 76. He had suffered a fall at his home in his bathroom two days prior and refused to seek medical attention until the following morning out of a desire to spend his 76th birthday at home. He went to bed and the next day, he posted on social media that he never got so many birthday wishes. He was found by his long-time house manager Teresa Reveles the next day. Police said that his death appeared to be from natural causes, though the investigation is ongoing; Reveles suspected that Simmons had suffered a heart attack in his sleep. He was buried at Pierce Brothers Westwood Village Memorial Park and Mortuary, dressed in his trademark fitness outfit. On August 21, in a report given to Simmons' brother, the Los Angeles County Coroner's office confirmed that Simmons had died of complications of the previous day's fall, among others, and that heart disease was a contributing factor; no unprescribed drugs had been in his system when he died.
On July 20, one week after his death, Simmons' team shared what would be his final social media post, a paraphrase of lyrics from the song "Fly Me to the Moon". On October 5, a memorial mass for Simmons was held at St. Louis Cathedral in New Orleans, Louisiana.
Print and other media
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Books
- Never Say Diet
- Never Say Diet Cookbook
- The Better Body Book
- Deal-A-Meal Cookbook
- Reach for Fitness: A Special Book of Exercises for the Physically Challenged
- Richard Simmons' Never Give Up: Inspirations, Reflections, Stories of Hope
- Farewell to Fat
- Sweetie Pie: The Richard Simmons Private Collection of Dazzling Desserts
- Still Hungry After All These Years: My Story
- The Food Mover Cookbook
- Cookin' on Broadway
- Steam Away the Pounds
Audio
Analog compact cassette
- Project Me (six-tape set)
- Take a Walk
- Take a Hike
- Sweatin' and Sharin With Richard Simmons & Friends
- Walk Across America
- Colors of Your Life (single tape)
- Colors of Your Life (six tape set)
- Secrets of the Winners (single tape)
- Take a Classical Walk
- Walkin' on Broadway
- Walk Around the World
- Never Give Up: Inspirations, Reflections, Stories of Hope (book on tape, read by Simmons)
Compact disc
- Richard Picks the Hits, Volume 1
- Richard Picks the Hits, Volume 2
- Country Cardio
- Oh Happy Day
- Fitness Fiesta
- Wicked Workout
- Big Screen Burn
- Shimmy into Shape
- In the Mood to Lose
- Classical Chillout
Vinyl record
- Reach (Elektra Records, 1982) – AUS No. 12
Singles
- This Time (Elektra Records, 45 rpm 1983)
Digital compact cassette
- Colors of Your Life (single tape) (Goodtimes Entertainment, BASF 90 Min. 1998)
Visual media
DVD
- Richard Simmons and the Silver Foxes
- Latin Blast Off
- Mega Mix Blast Off
- Mega Mix 2 Blast Off
- Disco Blast Off
- '60s Blast Off
- '80s Blast Off
- Blast and Tone
- Disco Sweat
- SuperSweatin': Party Off the Pounds
- SuperTonin': Totally Tonin
- SuperTonin': Totally Tonin' with Toning Rings
- Sit Tight
- Sweatin' to the Oldies
- Sweatin' to the Oldies 2
- Sweatin' to the Oldies 3
- Sweatin' to the Oldies 4
- Sweatin' to the Oldies 5
- Love Yourself and Win
- Boogie Down the Pounds
- Tonin' to the Oldies
- "Richard Simmons Project H.O.P.E. – Health, Optimism, Passion, Energy"
Video cassette
- Everyday with Richard Simmons
- The Stomach Formula
- Get Started
- Reach for Fitness – A Special Video of Exercises for the Physically Challenged
- Deal Your Way to Health
- Richard Simmons and the Silver Foxes
- Sweatin' to the Oldies
- Sweatin' to the Oldies 2
- Sweatin' to the Oldies 3
- Sweatin' to the Oldies 4
- Day By Day (Volumes 1–12)
- Pump and Sweat
- Step and Sweat
- Tone and Sweat
- Stretchin' to the Classics
- Dance Your Pants Off!
- Tonin' Uptown
- Tonin' Downtown
- Groovin' In The House
- The Ab Formula
- No Ifs Ands or Butts
- Love to Stretch
- Blast Off
- Broadway Sweat
- Tone Up On Broadway
- Broadway Blast Off
- Platinum Sweat
- Sit Tight
- Latin Blast Off
- Mega Mix Blast Off
- Mega Mix 2 Blast Off
- Disco Blast Off
- 60's Blast Off
- 80's Blast Off
- Blast and Tone
- Farewell to Fat
- Disco Sweat
- Sudar Mucho
YouTube
- Fit to Fly
- Hair Do (Official Music Video)
Television/movies
- The Richard Simmons Show
- Family Feud
- Fish Hooks
- Johnny Bravo
- Fame (1982 TV series)
- General Hospital
- Late Show with David Letterman
- The Howard Stern Show
- Pictionary
- Win, Lose or Draw
- Super Password
- The Roseanne Show
- Larry King Live
- Match Game
- Live with Regis and Kathie Lee
- Honey, I Blew Up the Kid
- Rocko's Modern Life
- Body Language
- Richard Simmons Dream Maker
- Hollywood Squares
- Wheel of Fortune
- The Wendy Williams Show
- Figure it Out
- The Ellen DeGeneres Show
- Whose Line Is It Anyway?
- The Doctors
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The montage of Gay Peter Pan's phone contacts includes out celebrities like Richard Simmons and Rosie O'Donnell
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-
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When Kathy Kinney came on my show and outed Richard Simmons, I didn't try to "in" Richard Simmons. The gay community accused me of in-ing Richard Simmons, like I was trying to make people think that he was straight. I will tell you this: If Richard Simmons ever wants to discuss his private life with me on national TV, he's welcome to do so. It is not anyone else's right to do that before he decides it's time. That's the reason I said to Kathy Kinney, "We'll be right back with a commercial." I'm simply saying that that right belongs to him. And no matter what community you feel he's a part of or what he represents to you, it is not as relevant as his own truth.
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- Sheeler, Jason; Lynn Shultz, Cara. "Richard Simmons Says He Is Celebrating His 76th Birthday with 'Candle on a Zucchini' (Exclusive)". People. Retrieved October 17, 2024.
- Bernabe, Angeline Jane (March 19, 2024). "Richard Simmons apologizes for cryptic Facebook message: 'I am not dying'". ABC News. Archived from the original on March 19, 2024. Retrieved March 19, 2024.
- "Richard Simmons, 75, Reveals He Has Skin Cancer Days After Posting About Dying". People. Archived from the original on March 20, 2024. Retrieved March 20, 2024.
- Simmons, Richard (March 20, 2024). Post. Twitter.
- "Richard Simmons, 'the Clown Prince of Fitness,' Dies at 76". The New York Times. July 13, 2024. Retrieved July 19, 2024.
- Sheeler, Jason. "Richard Simmons' Housekeeper of 35 Years Breaks Her Silence: 'He Died Happy' (Exclusive)". People. Retrieved August 19, 2024.
- "Richard Simmons' Death Involved No Foul Play: Source". People. July 18, 2024. Retrieved July 19, 2024.
- "Why Did Fitness Guru Richard Simmons Turn Down Medical Attention After Bathroom Fall?". Yahoo. July 15, 2024. Retrieved July 19, 2024.
- "Richard Simmons, legendary fitness guru, dies at 76, representative confirms". ABC7 Los Angeles. July 13, 2024. Archived from the original on July 13, 2024. Retrieved July 13, 2024.
- Osborne, Mark (July 13, 2024). "Fitness guru Richard Simmons dead at 76". ABC News. Retrieved July 13, 2024.
- Richard Simmons’ Brother Reveals Fitness Guru Was Buried in Workout Outfit Beneath Clothes During Celebration of Life Speech
- "Richard Simmons' Brother Reveals Late Exercise Guru's Cause of Death". Yahoo. August 21, 2024. Retrieved August 21, 2024.
- Garner, Glenn (July 21, 2024). "Richard Simmons' Team Shares His Final Prepared Social Media Post 1 Week After Death". Deadline Hollywood. Retrieved July 22, 2024.
- Brasted, Chelsea; Wells, Carlie. "Richard Simmons memorial". axios.com/local/new-orleans. Axios New Orleans. Retrieved October 4, 2024.
- Simmons, Richard (1980). Never Say Diet. New York City: Warner Books. ISBN 978-0446512091.
- Simmons, Richard (1982). Never Say Diet Cookbook. New York City: Warner Books. ISBN 978-0446512435.
- Simmons, Richard (1985). The Better Body Book (1st ed.). New York City: Warner Books. ISBN 978-0446512633.
- Simmons, Richard (1987). Deal-A-Meal Cookbook (Spiral-bound ed.). Beverly Hills, California: Deal-a-meal, Inc. ASIN B00071E0XA. Archived from the original on March 7, 2017. Retrieved March 7, 2017.
- Simmons, Richard (1986). Reach for Fitness: A Special Book of Exercises for the Physically Challenged (1st ed.). New York City: Warner Books. ISBN 978-0446513029.
- Simmons, Richard (1993). Richard Simmons' Never Give Up: Inspirations, Reflections, Stories of Hope (1st ed.). New York City: Warner Books. ISBN 978-0446517034.
- Simmons, Richard (1996). Farewell to Fat (1st ed.). New York City: GT Publishing Corporation. ISBN 978-1577191025.
- Simmons, Richard (1997). Sweetie Pie: The Richard Simmons Private Collection of Dazzling Desserts (1st ed.). New York City: GT Publishing Corporation. ISBN 978-1577192763.
- Simmons, Richard (1999). The Food Mover Cookbook (Spiral-bound ed.). New York City: GT Publishing Corporation. ISBN 978-1577197591.
- Simmons, Richard (2000). Cookin' on Broadway (Spiral-bound ed.). New York City: GT Publishing Corporation. ASIN B001TNS414. Archived from the original on March 7, 2017. Retrieved March 7, 2017.
- Simmons, Richard (2006). Steam Away the Pounds. Rocklin, California: Pascoe Publishing, Inc. ISBN 978-1929862610.
- Simmons, Richard (1991). Project Me (Compact Cassette). Beverly Hills, California: Deal-a-meal, Inc. ASIN B000GE9Y5W. Archived from the original on March 8, 2017. Retrieved March 7, 2017.
- Simmons, Richard (1991). Take a Walk (Compact Cassette). Beverly Hills, California: Deal-a-meal, Inc. ASIN B000KMHGCI. Archived from the original on March 8, 2017. Retrieved March 7, 2017.
- Simmons, Richard (1991). Take a Hike (Compact Cassette). Beverly Hills, California: Deal-a-meal, Inc. ASIN B000YQLSN8. Archived from the original on March 8, 2017. Retrieved March 7, 2017.
- Simmons, Richard (1994). Sweatin' and Sharin' With Richard Simmons & Friends (Compact Cassette). New York City: GT Publishing Corporation. ASIN B000GYZC8K. Archived from the original on March 8, 2017. Retrieved March 7, 2017.
- Simmons, Richard (1995). Walk Across America (Compact Cassette). New York City: GT Publishing Corporation. ASIN B000P527CE. Archived from the original on March 8, 2017. Retrieved March 7, 2017.
- Simmons, Richard (1998). Colors of Your Life (Compact Cassette). Beverly Hills, California: The Richard Simmons Living Trust. ASIN B000F3R72G. Archived from the original on March 8, 2017. Retrieved March 7, 2017.
- Simmons, Richard (1998). Colors of Your Life (Compact Cassette). Beverly Hills, California: The Richard Simmons Living Trust. ASIN B0009WPKQ8. Archived from the original on March 8, 2017. Retrieved March 7, 2017.
- Simmons, Richard (1998). Secrets of the Winners (Compact Cassette). Beverly Hills, California: The Richard Simmons Living Trust. ASIN B0002JL96I.
- Simmons, Richard (1993). Never Give Up: Inspirations, Reflections, Stories of Hope (Compact Cassette) (Abridged ed.). Southfield, Michigan: Audio Renaissance. ISBN 978-1559272193. Archived from the original on March 8, 2017. Retrieved March 8, 2017.
- Simmons, Richard (January 3, 2006). Oh Happy Day. Somerset Entertainment (Audio CD). Austin, Texas: Mood Media. ASIN B000DGY0C0. Archived from the original on March 8, 2017. Retrieved March 7, 2017.
- Wicked Workout. Somerset Entertainment (Audio CD). Austin, Texas: Mood Media. January 3, 2006. ASIN B000DGY0CK. Archived from the original on March 8, 2017. Retrieved March 8, 2017.
- Kent, David (1993). Australian Chart Book 1970–1992 (illustrated ed.). St Ives, N.S.W.: Australian Chart Book. p. 274. ISBN 0-646-11917-6.
- Richard Simmons and the Silver Foxes. Warner Home Video (DVD). Burbank, California: Warner Bros. December 14, 2004. ASIN B0004Z32ME. Archived from the original on March 9, 2017. Retrieved March 8, 2017.
- Disco Sweat. Gaiam Vivendi Entertainment (DVD). Universal City, California: Gaiam. April 9, 2002. ASIN B0000541WK. Archived from the original on March 8, 2017. Retrieved March 8, 2017.
- Sweatin' to the Oldies. Time Life Entertainment (DVD). New York City: Time Life. March 14, 2008. ASIN B001U2QEP2. Archived from the original on March 8, 2017. Retrieved March 8, 2017.
- Sweatin' to the Oldies 2. Time Life Entertainment (DVD). New York City: Time Life. June 3, 2008. ASIN B0017HEYGG. Archived from the original on March 8, 2017. Retrieved March 8, 2017.
- Sweatin' to the Oldies 3. Time Life Entertainment (DVD). New York City: Time Life. January 1, 2007. ASIN B003RLNW3G. Archived from the original on March 8, 2017. Retrieved March 8, 2017.
- Sweatin' to the Oldies 4. Time Life Entertainment (DVD). New York City: Time Life. April 9, 2013. ASIN B000Z8H1ZE. Archived from the original on March 8, 2017. Retrieved March 8, 2017.
- Sweatin' to the Oldies 5. Time Life Entertainment (DVD). New York City: Time Life. December 14, 2010. ASIN B003KIAWOS. Archived from the original on March 8, 2017. Retrieved March 8, 2017.
- Reach for Fitness – A Special Video of Exercises for the Physically Challenged. Gt Media, Inc. (VHS). New York City: GT Publishing Corporation. November 15, 1994. ASIN B00000680E. Archived from the original on March 7, 2017. Retrieved March 7, 2017.
- Sweatin' to the Oldies 3. GoodTimes Home Video (VHS). New York City: GoodTimes Entertainment. December 11, 2001. ASIN B00005T33C. Archived from the original on March 8, 2017. Retrieved March 8, 2017.
- Broadway Sweat. GoodTimes Home Video (VHS). New York City: GoodTimes Entertainment. January 1, 2000. ASIN B0001LWYDE. Archived from the original on March 8, 2017. Retrieved March 7, 2017.
- Farewell to Fat. Warner Home Video (VHS). Burbank, California: Warner Bros. December 1, 1998. ASIN B00000G3CA. Archived from the original on March 7, 2017. Retrieved March 7, 2017.
- YouTube video – Hair Do (Official Music Video). August 22, 2013. Archived from the original on April 15, 2023. Retrieved February 23, 2019.
- "Get Shovelized/T Is for Trouble". IMDb. July 9, 2004. Archived from the original on April 5, 2023. Retrieved July 13, 2024.
Further reading
- Bregel, Sarah (January 19, 2024). "Richard Simmons has been trying to live a private life since 2014, but the entertainment industry won't let him". BBC Home. Archived from the original on January 19, 2024. Retrieved January 20, 2024.
- Carey, Kevin (November 7, 2007). "'We're Leaving Our Children's Behinds Behind'—An Interview with Richard Simmons". The Quick and the Ed. American Institutes for Research. Archived from the original on November 11, 2007.
- Davis, David (November 27, 2012). "Still Richard: Richard Simmons keeps grooving at 64". SB Nation. Archived from the original on October 24, 2016. Retrieved December 11, 2017.
- Hellmich, Nanci (July 22, 2008). "7/22/2008". USA Today. Archived from the original on December 3, 2013. Retrieved December 2, 2013.
- Michel, Martin (July 21, 2008). "Fitness Guru Takes Message to Congress". Tell Me More. NPR. Archived from the original on October 24, 2016. Retrieved April 4, 2018.
- Staff (March 13, 2006). "Love yourself, lose weight". Canada.com. Archived from the original on March 4, 2016. Retrieved February 27, 2017.
- Staff (August 24, 2007). "Richard Simmons: Fit Kids Are Smart Kids". Education Week. Editorial Projects in Education. Archived from the original on October 22, 2007. Retrieved November 29, 2013.
- "Staying fit with the one and only fitness guru, Richard Simmons!" (Interview). Interviewed by Cindy Rhodes. Sidewalks Entertainment. June 2006. Archived from the original on October 24, 2016. Retrieved February 27, 2017.
External links
- Official website
- Richard Simmons at IMDb
- Richard Simmons discography at Discogs
- 1948 births
- 2024 deaths
- 20th-century American male writers
- 20th-century American non-fiction writers
- 21st-century American male writers
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- Accidental deaths from falls in the United States
- Accidental deaths in California
- American cookbook writers
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