Fitness icon Richard Simmons, who passed away on July 13 at the age of 76, died from complications due to recent falls, with heart disease as a contributing factor, according to his brother, Lenny Simmons.
The cause of death was confirmed by the LA Coroner’s office in a call to Lenny on Aug. 21, as detailed in a statement released to People by the Simmons family spokesperson, Tom Estey.
“This morning, Richard Simmons’ brother Lenny received a call from the LA Coroner’s office. The Coroner informed Lenny that Richard’s death was accidental due to complications from recent falls and heart disease as a contributing factor. The toxicology report was negative other than medication Richard had been prescribed. The Family wishes to thank everyone for their outpouring of love and support during this time of great loss,” Estey said.
Simmons was found unresponsive at his Hollywood Hills home by his longtime housekeeper, just one day after celebrating his 76th birthday. Although there was no initial suspicion of foul play, the cause of death was deferred pending additional tests, which have now confirmed the circumstances.
Known for his flamboyant personality and relentless positivity, Simmons built a multi-faceted fitness empire that included 12 books, 10 CDs, and 22 DVDs.
Among his most famous works was his 1982 platinum album Reach, which spent 40 weeks on the Billboard 200. The album featured motivational songs like “What Are You Waiting For?,” “You Can Do It,” and “Wake Up.”
Reach was part of the early ’80s fitness craze, debuting on the Billboard 200 in the week ending June 5, 1982, just one week after Jane Fonda’s Workout Record debuted. Simmons’ colorful and energetic approach to fitness, combined with the era’s enthusiasm for getting fit, made him a beloved pop culture figure.
Simmons’ television career further solidified his place in the spotlight. He hosted The Richard Simmons Show from 1980 to 1984, which focused on personal health, fitness, and healthy cooking.
He also made frequent guest appearances on popular programs like Late Night with David Letterman and General Hospital.
The pop culture icon always seemed to be in on the joke, whether it was during his guest spots or in interviews, famously saying in a 2012 Men’s Health interview, “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.”
Simmons’ fitness journey began after he moved to Los Angeles in the 1970s, where he opened an exercise studio called the Anatomy Asylum, later renamed Slimmons. His dedication to health helped him lose over 100 pounds, a feat he proudly maintained for over four decades.
His influence extended beyond fitness as he produced more than 50 workout videos, including the iconic Sweatin’ to the Oldies series, which sold over 22 million copies.
In recent years, Simmons retreated from public life, sparking rumors and concern from his fans.
Despite his absence, he remained active on social media, sharing messages of positivity. Earlier this year, he was portrayed by actor Pauly Shore in a short film called The Court Jester, which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival. However, Simmons made it clear he had not authorized the film, writing in a post, “I have never given my permission for this movie. So don’t believe everything you read.”
Reflecting on his brother’s legacy, Lenny Simmons told People, “I don’t want people to be sad about my brother. I want them to remember him for the genuine joy and love he brought to people’s lives.”
