Richard Simmons

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Richard Simmons (born Milton Teagle Simmons; July 12, 1948 – July 13, 2024) was an American fitness coach and TV personality who helped many people get active and lose weight. He opened Slimmons, a welcoming gym in Beverly Hills, and taught exercise in a friendly, supportive way. He became famous on television with The Richard Simmons Show (1980–1984) and through his popular Sweatin’ to the Oldies workout videos. He also appeared on many other shows and even portrayed himself on General Hospital.

Known for his high-energy workouts and bright outfits, Simmons connected personally with fans and claimed to have helped millions of people lose weight over his decades-long career. He continued to promote fitness through videos, TV, and public appearances, and he shared exercise and healthy eating tips with his followers.

Simmons was raised Catholic in New Orleans and studied art, earning a BA from Florida State University. He faced obesity in childhood and early life, lost a significant amount of weight, and built a career around helping others do the same. He lived in Beverly Hills, was known for his distinctive tank tops with crystals and striped shorts, and kept in touch with fans—answering letters, emails, and calls for many years.

Public appearances slowed after 2014, and he largely stepped back from the spotlight. There were rumors and media curiosity about his privacy in later years, including a 2017 libel case and a long-running podcast about his absence. In 2024, Simmons spoke about a skin cancer diagnosis he had years earlier and remained privately active in his own way, including encouraging fans from time to time.

On July 13, 2024, Simmons died in Los Angeles at age 76 after a fall at home. The coroner said heart disease contributed to his death, which was listed as due to natural causes related to the fall. He was buried at Pierce Brothers Westwood Village Memorial Park and Mortuary in Los Angeles. A memorial mass was held in New Orleans, where his brother Lenny spoke about his life and impact.