Richard Simmons Explained

Richard Simmons
Birth Name:Milton Teagle Simmons
Birth Date:12 July 1948
Birth Place:New Orleans, Louisiana, U.S.
Death Place:Los Angeles, California, U.S.
Resting Place:Pierce Brothers Westwood Village Memorial Park and Mortuary, Los Angeles
Years Active:1968–2014
Alma Mater:University of Louisiana at Lafayette
Florida State University (BA)

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.[1] [2]

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.[3] Simmons had an older brother.[4] 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.[5] [6] [7] He attended the University of Louisiana at Lafayette before graduating from Florida State University with a Bachelor of Arts in art.[8]

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 182lb. As a young man, he considered being a priest.[9] 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 268lb.[10] [11] [12]

In an interview with the Tampa Bay Times, Simmons explained he adopted the name Richard after an uncle who paid for his college tuition.[13] 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 123lb.[14] [15]

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.[16] Later renamed Slimmons, the establishment continued operations in Beverly Hills and Simmons taught motivational classes and aerobics throughout the week.[17] 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.[18] 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.[19]

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).[20]

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).[21] He introduced customers whom he had helped to lose weight. He later had guest roles on Battlestars, Super Password, Win, Lose or Draw,[22] Body Language,[23] Match Game (ABC), Hollywood Squares (syndicated),[24] and Nickelodeon's Figure It Out.[25] Positive viewer reactions landed Simmons a recurring role as himself in General Hospital over a four-year period.[26] 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,[18] [27] in which he focused on personal health, fitness, exercise, and healthy cooking. Simmons portrayed himself in the Amazing Stories episode "Remote Control Man".[28] Simmons was a guest on The Rosie O'Donnell Show on November 18, 1997, together with Celine Dion.[29] He was a frequent guest on The Howard Stern Show, his last appearance coming in 2013.[30]

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.[31] 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 . 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".[32] 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.[33]

Simmons appeared multiple times on The Glenn Beck Program on HLN.[34] From 2006 to 2008, he hosted a radio show on Sirius Stars (Sirius Satellite Radio channel 102) titled Lighten Up with Richard Simmons.[35] [36] 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.[37] He is featured heavily in the film clip of "Hawker Boat" by Tobacco, taken from the album Fucked Up Friends.[38]

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".[39]

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."[40] In April, he said he was discussing giving his approval for a different biopic.[41]

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.[42] 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.[43]

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.[13] [44]

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.[45]

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.[45] Although his persona inspired speculation about his sexual orientation, he never publicly addressed the subject.[46] [47] [48] [49] [50] 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.[51]

In a 2012 interview with Men's Health, he was quoted:

Hurricane Katrina response

In September 2005, Simmons appeared on Entertainment Tonight[52] 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).[53] [54] [55]

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.[56] [57] 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.[58] In November 2016, the Simmons fitness gym closed without any public announcement from Simmons.[59] In February 2017, the podcast Missing Richard Simmons launched, investigating why Simmons left public life so suddenly.[60]

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".[61] 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".[62] 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.[63] [64] [65]

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.[66] 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".[67]

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.[68] In July 2018, Simmons amended the suit, alleging the investigator had been hired by In Touch Weekly and prosecutors filed a criminal complaint.[69] In May 2020, a California appellate court upheld a trial judge's decision allowing Simmons' lawsuit to move forward.[70]

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".[71]

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.[72]

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."[73] 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.[74] 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.[75] [76]

Death

On July 13, 2024, Simmons died at his home in Los Angeles at the age of 76.[77] 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.[78] 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.[79] [80] Police said that his death appeared to be from natural causes, though the investigation is ongoing;[81] [82] Reveles suspected that Simmons had suffered a heart attack in his sleep.[83] He was buried at Pierce Brothers Westwood Village Memorial Park and Mortuary, dressed in his trademark fitness outfit.[84] 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.[85]

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".[86] On October 5, a memorial mass for Simmons was held at St. Louis Cathedral in New Orleans, Louisiana.[87]

Print and other media

Books

Audio

Analog compact cassette

Compact disc

Vinyl record

Singles

Digital compact cassette

Visual media

DVD

Video cassette

YouTube

Television/movies

Further reading

Notes and References

  1. Web site: Ibanga. Imaeyen. Richard Simmons Obesity Crusade. ABC News. October 15, 2008. May 2, 2013. December 14, 2013. https://web.archive.org/web/20131214122319/http://abcnews.go.com/GMA/OnCall/story?id=6038493. live.
  2. Web site: Claus von Zastrow on . Kids Aren't Well-Rounded; They're Just...Rounded. https://archive.today/20120907065230/http://www.publicschoolinsights.org/kids-arent-well-rounded-theyre-justrounded. dead. September 7, 2012. Public School Insights. March 27, 2008. May 2, 2013.
  3. Simmons (1999) pp. 21–32
  4. Richard Simmons Biography. TV Guide. August 23, 2022. August 23, 2022. https://web.archive.org/web/20220823210556/https://www.tvguide.com/celebrities/richard-simmons/bio/3000403133/. live.
  5. Web site: Simmons: America has to shape up. Lisa. Anderson. The Day. Google News. February 12, 1984. May 16, 2015. July 5, 2022. https://web.archive.org/web/20220705113805/https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1915&dat=19840212&id=eTJSAAAAIBAJ&pg=1636%2C1983164. live.
  6. News: The Denver Postdenverpost.com. Richard Simmons' many secrets. The Denver Post. May 2, 2013. October 29, 2013. https://web.archive.org/web/20131029203606/http://www.denverpost.com/fitness/ci_9595970. live.
  7. News: New Orleans native Richard Simmons moves 'em at Harrah's. Bynum. Chris. The Times-Picayune. October 3, 2008. June 11, 2012. October 24, 2012. https://web.archive.org/web/20121024005431/http://blog.nola.com/chrisbynum/2008/10/fitness_jester_and_hometown_bo.html. dead.
  8. Web site: Briscoe . Jake . What Happened to Richard Simmons – 2018 Update – Gazette Review . Gazette Review . November 28, 2018 . March 24, 2017 . November 28, 2018 . https://web.archive.org/web/20181128122943/https://gazettereview.com/2017/03/happened-richard-simmons-news-updates/ . live . (updated January 3, 2018)
  9. News: Church of Richard Simmons: Fitness advocate leads workout at Stateline. Chandler. Rick. January 19, 2007. Tahoe Daily Tribune. June 14, 2012. July 22, 2012. https://web.archive.org/web/20120722004210/http://www.tahoedailytribune.com/article/20070119/ENTERTAINMENT/101190089. live.
  10. News: Behind the Bestsellers. Klemesrud. Judy. February 15, 1981. The New York Times. June 11, 2012. November 13, 2013. https://web.archive.org/web/20131113115415/http://www.nytimes.com/1981/02/15/books/behind-the-bestsellers.html. live.
  11. The Sultan of Svelte. Kathy. Mackay. November 2, 1981. People. June 11, 2011. March 10, 2011. https://web.archive.org/web/20110310195124/http://www.people.com/people/archive/article/0,,20080593,00.html. live.
  12. Kathy . Mackay . Former Fatty Richard Simmons Is the Grand Duke of Diet and the Clown Prince of Fitness . . April 13, 1981 . March 21, 2017 . August 16, 2016 . https://web.archive.org/web/20160816185425/http://www.people.com/people/archive/article/0,,20079026,00.html . live .
  13. News: My conversation with Richard Simmons. https://web.archive.org/web/20121031083916/http://www.tampabay.com/features/popculture/article902169.ece. dead. October 31, 2012. Breen. Shannon. Tampa Bay Times. November 14, 2008. June 14, 2012.
  14. Web site: Barnes . Mike . Richard Simmons, Celebrity Fitness Guru, Dies at 76 . The Hollywood Reporter . July 13, 2024 . July 13, 2024 . July 13, 2024 . https://web.archive.org/web/20240713231440/https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/richard-simmons-dead-fitness-guru-1235948038/ . live .
  15. News: Sullivan . Rebecca . 'Missing Richard Simmons' explores how the fitness guru hasn't been seen in public for more than 1,000 days . Fox News . March 3, 2017 . July 13, 2024 . July 13, 2024 . 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 . live .
  16. Simmons, R. (1999) pp. 177–184
  17. News: A Celebrity Sweats: It's Richard!. The New York Times. Tricia. Romano. December 23, 2009. May 22, 2010. March 31, 2011. https://web.archive.org/web/20110331043650/http://www.nytimes.com/2009/12/24/fashion/24fitness.html. live.
  18. News: Richard Simmons, legendary fitness personality, dies at 76 . NBC News . July 13, 2024 . July 13, 2024 . July 13, 2024 . https://web.archive.org/web/20240713225337/https://www.nbcnews.com/news/obituaries/richard-simmons-obituary-rcna161728 . live .
  19. News: Osborne . Mark . Stone . David . Fitness guru Richard Simmons dead at 76 . ABC News . July 13, 2024.
  20. Web site: Richard Simmons' Story, Pt. 2 | The Dr. Oz Show . Doctoroz.com . February 15, 2010 . May 2, 2013 . December 13, 2013 . https://web.archive.org/web/20131213035454/http://www.doctoroz.com/videos/richard-simmons-personal-story-pt-2 . dead.
  21. Web site: Hughes . William . July 13, 2024 . R.I.P. Richard Simmons, fitness guru . July 20, 2024 . . en-US.
  22. Web site: Danhauer . Whitney . July 13, 2024 . Richard Simmons Dead at Age 76: Fitness Guru Dies 1 Day After Birthday . July 20, 2024 . Yahoo Entertainment . In Touch . en-US.
  23. Web site: September 11, 1985 . Body Language - Sept 11, 1985 (Phyllis Diller / Richard Simmons) . archive.org.
  24. Web site: July 13, 2024 . Richard Simmons, iconic fitness guru, dead at 76 . live . https://web.archive.org/web/20240718034212/https://wtmx.com/richard-simmons-iconic-fitness-guru-dead-at-76/ . July 18, 2024 . July 20, 2024 . WTMX.com . en-US.
  25. Web site: Rodriguez . Karla . July 13, 2024 . A look back at Richard Simmons' energetic and impactful career after fitness guru died age 76 . July 20, 2024 . themirror.com.
  26. Web site: Richard Simmons Official Site and Clubhouse: Weight Loss and Fitness Tools and Motivation . May 2, 2013 . dead . https://web.archive.org/web/20080914083209/http://www.richardsimmons.com/j/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=15&Itemid=80 . September 14, 2008 .
  27. Web site: What happened to '80s fitness star Richard Simmons? . January 26, 2024 . Chloe-Lee . Longhetti . . 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 . January 27, 2024 . live.
  28. Watch Amazing Stories Episode: Remote Control Man . en-US . July 20, 2024 . https://web.archive.org/web/20240720043650/https://www.nbc.com/amazing-stories/video/remote-control-man/2909101 . July 20, 2024 . nbc.com.
  29. Web site: Hogan . Kate . Richard Simmons Is Back! After Years of Silence, He's Chatty Again — and Revealing Which Star Asked Him to 'Shut Up' . People . Yahoo! . May 9, 2024.
  30. Web site: Richard Simmons Breaks His Silence . howardstern.com . March 14, 2016 . July 13, 2024 . July 13, 2024 . https://web.archive.org/web/20240713230554/https://www.howardstern.com/show/2016/03/14/richard-simmons-breaks-his-silence/ . live .
  31. Web site: Michael Z. . McIntee . Show #1515 . CBS Late Show with David Letterman . December 26, 2006 . February 9, 2007 . dead . https://web.archive.org/web/20070514141704/http://www.cbs.com/latenight/lateshow/wahoo/index/php/20061226.phtml . May 14, 2007 .
  32. Gonzalez . Ale . July 13, 2024 . Remembering Richard Simmons with iconic ESPN SportsCenter commercial . July 20, 2024 . . en-US.
  33. Web site: Gates . Marya E. . July 15, 2024 . A Force For Good: Richard Simmons (1948-2024) . July 20, 2024 . rogerebert.com . en.
  34. News: CNN.com. CNN. May 22, 2010. June 29, 2011. https://web.archive.org/web/20110629122650/http://transcripts.cnn.com/TRANSCRIPTS/0606/22/gb.01.html. live.
  35. Web site: California Governors Conference 2006. californiagovernorsconference.org. November 28, 2018. September 26, 2006. January 28, 2019. https://web.archive.org/web/20190128143747/http://www.californiagovernorsconference.org/. live. (date per google; included to cite earliest mention of the show)
  36. Web site: A Sad Day on Sirius Satellite Radio – No More Richard Simmons. fearlessfatloss.com. Braley. JoLynn. October 27, 2008. March 7, 2017. March 7, 2017. https://web.archive.org/web/20170307212834/http://www.fearlessfatloss.com/weight-loss-news/a-sad-day-on-sirius-satellite-radio-no-more-richard-simmons/. live.
  37. Web site: Mile-high madness with Richard Simmons!. YouTube. March 27, 2011. May 2, 2013. May 18, 2013. https://web.archive.org/web/20130518155710/http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3iaTEgoezNQ. live.
  38. Web site: Tobacco – Hawker Boat. YouTube. November 13, 2008. May 2, 2013. June 9, 2014. https://web.archive.org/web/20140609081948/http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RSwN4_1NIoU. live.
  39. News: Richard Simmons of 'Sweatin' to the Oldies' is posting fitness videos 'as a comfort' during the coronavirus pandemic. Yahoo!. April 3, 2020. April 15, 2023. Solé. Elise. April 15, 2023. 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. live.
  40. News: Cain . Sian . Richard Simmons disavows biopic: 'I have never given my permission for this movie' . January 17, 2024 . . January 17, 2024.
  41. Web site: Wong . Curtis M. . April 29, 2024 . Pauly Shore Shares Devastation Over Richard Simmons' Negative Biopic Reaction . April 30, 2024 . HuffPost . en . April 30, 2024 . https://web.archive.org/web/20240430112445/https://www.huffpost.com/entry/pauly-shore-richard-simmons-biopic-tears_n_662fb01de4b09dcb78308a15 . live .
  42. Web site: Simmons . Richard . March 6, 2024 . Post . October 5, 2024 . X.
  43. Web site: Remembering Richard Simmons and His 'Extreme Catholic' Faith National Catholic Register . October 5, 2024 . National Catholic Register.
  44. News: The Real Richard Simmons: 'Still Doin' It' at 60. Chris Connelly, Steven Baker. ABC News. February 23, 2009. June 27, 2012. December 4, 2013. https://web.archive.org/web/20131204030653/http://abcnews.go.com/Nightline/story?id=6940049#.T-qkY9mkBpQ. live.
  45. News: The many secrets of Richard Simmons . https://web.archive.org/web/20080606235114/http://www.chicagotribune.com/entertainment/chi-simmons--0604jun04%2C0%2C1865034.story . June 6, 2008 . Pang, Kevin . Chicago Tribune . June 4, 2008 . June 4, 2008 . dead .
  46. News: The Way We Live Now: Counter Culture; Not a Straight Story. Sullivan. Andrew. Andrew Sullivan. December 12, 1999. The New York Times. §6 p.4. April 5, 2009. September 29, 2013. 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. live.
  47. Garelick. Rhonda. September 1995. Outrageous Dieting: The Camp Performance of Richard Simmons. Postmodern Culture. Johns Hopkins University Press. 6. 1. 10.1353/pmc.1995.0038. 143735265. 1053-1920. April 5, 2009. July 4, 2008. https://web.archive.org/web/20080704151101/http://www.iath.virginia.edu/pmc/text-only/issue.995/pop-cult.995. live.
  48. Kendall. Lori. March 22, 2008. James Bond, Peter Pan, and A Sticky Night of Love: irony and masculinities in amateur animated videos. The Journal of Men's Studies. 16. 2. 124. 1060-8265. The montage of Gay Peter Pan's phone contacts includes out celebrities like Richard Simmons and Rosie O'Donnell. 10.3149/jms.1602.124. 2142/18806. 144617297. free.
  49. News: Heroes are hard to find when the're hiding. Rinaldi. Ray Mark. April 23, 2000. St. Louis Post-Dispatch. F3. We've always allowed gay men on the tube – did anyone besides my grandmother really think Liberace was heterosexual? What about Paul Lynde? Richard Simmons? — but the rules are clear. It's all right to be a flamer as long as you agree to keep it secret..
  50. Wieder. Judy. January 21, 2003. 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). The Advocate. 15. 52. 0001-8996. 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. [Loudly] 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..
  51. News: Sloop. Hope. Jane Fonda Pays Tribute to Richard Simmons After His Death: 'I Hope He Felt the Love So Many Were Sending Him'. Entertainment Tonight. July 14, 2024. July 17, 2024.
  52. Web site: Richard Simmons' History of Helping Others: From Weight Loss to Hurricane Katrina . July 20, 2024 . . en-US . Television production.
  53. News: October 25, 2007 . Richard Simmons Keeps P.E. Campaign Going . July 20, 2024 . . en . 0277-4232.
  54. Web site: Simmons . Richard . We received some sobering news from WASHINGTON late Monday . dead . https://web.archive.org/web/20071012083825/http://www.richardsimmons.com/pages/HR1224.php . October 12, 2007 . richardsimmons.com.
  55. Web site: February 28, 2007 . H.R.1224 - Strengthening Physical Education Act of 2007 . July 19, 2024 . Congress.gov.
  56. News: Richard Simmons Has Been Missing for Two Years, Friends Concerned He's Being Held Hostage. Yahoo News. March 13, 2016. March 13, 2016. October 5, 2017. https://web.archive.org/web/20171005094818/https://www.yahoo.com/celebrity/richard-simmons-missing-two-years-191101708.html. dead.
  57. News: Where's Richard Simmons? Twisted mystery has friends concerned. Andy Martino. Daily News. New York. March 12, 2016. March 13, 2016. July 15, 2020. https://web.archive.org/web/20200715043215/http://interactive.nydailynews.com/2016/03/richard-simmons-disappeared-twisted-mystery/. dead.
  58. Web site: Richard Simmons speaks out on his absence. CNN. March 13, 2016. March 14, 2016. March 13, 2016. https://web.archive.org/web/20160313205153/http://www.cnn.com/2016/03/13/entertainment/richard-simmons-mystery-feat/index.html. live.
  59. News: Richard Simmons 'Slimmons' Closes ...No Sign of Richard. November 19, 2016. TMZ. April 17, 2020. November 11, 2020. https://web.archive.org/web/20201111182936/https://www.tmz.com/2016/11/19/richard-simmons-slimmons-studio-closed/. live.
  60. Web site: Missing Richard Simmons. Missing Richard Simmons. February 27, 2017. February 27, 2017. https://web.archive.org/web/20170227232108/https://www.missingrichardsimmons.com/. live.
  61. News: Richard Simmons Is 'Perfectly Fine', LAPD Says After Visit. Ron Dicker. HuffPost. March 10, 2017. April 17, 2020. November 2, 2017. https://web.archive.org/web/20171102060740/https://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/richard-simmons-is-perfectly-fine-lapd-says-after-visit_us_58c28013e4b054a0ea69c484. live.
  62. News: Holpuch. Amanda. Richard Simmons makes statement for first time in a year: 'I'm not missing'. April 19, 2017. The Guardian. April 19, 2017.
  63. Web site: Richard Simmons Speaks Directly to Fans for First Time in Three Years. People via MSN. April 19, 2017. April 20, 2017. 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. April 20, 2017. dead.
  64. News: Corinne. Heller. Why This 'New' Richard Simmons Photo and Message Make His Disappearance Even More Confusing. E! News. April 19, 2017. April 20, 2017. April 20, 2017. 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. live.
  65. Web site: Dan. Clarendon. Someone Updated Richard Simmons' Facebook, and We're Not Sure It Was Him. Wetpaint. April 19, 2017. April 20, 2017. April 20, 2017. https://web.archive.org/web/20170420143414/http://www.wetpaint.com/where-is-richard-simmons-facebook-post-1584582/. live.
  66. Web site: Richard Simmons sues media companies for libel and false accusations of being transgender.. Kiefer. Halle. May 8, 2017. Vulture.com. May 6, 2017. May 11, 2017. https://web.archive.org/web/20170511084557/http://www.vulture.com/2017/05/richard-simmons-sues-national-enquirer-over-transition-story.html. live.
  67. News: Kenneally. Tim. Richard Simmons Ordered to Pay National Enquirer's Legal Fees in Transgender Story Lawsuit. September 21, 2017. San Francisco Chronicle. September 21, 2017. September 22, 2017. https://web.archive.org/web/20170922024459/http://www.sfgate.com/entertainment/the-wrap/article/Richard-Simmons-Ordered-to-Pay-National-12219069.php. dead.
  68. News: Richard Simmons Sues PI Over Tracking Device . The Hollywood Reporter . Jonathan . Handel . June 5, 2018 . July 21, 2018 . July 21, 2018 . https://web.archive.org/web/20180721103104/https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/richard-simmons-sues-pi-tracking-device-1117220 . live .
  69. News: Prosecutors Charge Private Eye With Illegal Spying on Richard Simmons . The Hollywood Reporter . Eriq . Gardner . July 20, 2018 . July 21, 2018 . July 21, 2018 . https://web.archive.org/web/20180721021836/https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/thr-esq/prosecutors-charge-private-eye-spying-richard-simmons-1128873 . live .
  70. Web site: Tracking Richard Simmons' Car is Not Free Speech, Court Rules. May 21, 2020. November 20, 2020. January 26, 2021. https://web.archive.org/web/20210126102856/https://sports.yahoo.com/amphtml/tracking-richard-simmons-car-not-212106843.html. live.
  71. Web site: August 26, 2022 . Richard Simmons breaks silence, tells The Post he's 'living the life he has chosen' . August 27, 2022 . New York Post . en-US . August 26, 2022 . https://web.archive.org/web/20220826233649/https://nypost.com/2022/08/26/richard-simmons-breaks-6-year-silence-after-bombshell-doc/ . live .
  72. Web site: August 16, 2024 . Richard Simmons was a Kiwanis Children's Fund donor . October 24, 2024 . Kiwanis . en-US .
  73. Sheeler . Jason . Lynn Shultz . Cara . Richard Simmons Says He Is Celebrating His 76th Birthday with 'Candle on a Zucchini' (Exclusive) . . October 17, 2024.
  74. Web site: Bernabe . Angeline Jane . Richard Simmons apologizes for cryptic Facebook message: 'I am not dying' . ABC News . March 19, 2024 . March 19, 2024 . March 19, 2024 . https://web.archive.org/web/20240319124002/https://abcnews.go.com/GMA/Culture/richard-simmons-apologizes-cryptic-facebook-message-dying/story?id=108260630 . live .
  75. Richard Simmons, 75, Reveals He Has Skin Cancer Days After Posting About Dying. . March 20, 2024. March 20, 2024. https://web.archive.org/web/20240320152943/https://people.com/richard-simmons-reveals-moment-he-was-told-you-have-cancer-8611516. live.
  76. Simmons, Richard (March 20, 2024). Post. Twitter.
  77. Web site: Richard Simmons, 'the Clown Prince of Fitness,' Dies at 76. The New York Times. July 13, 2024. July 19, 2024.
  78. Sheeler . Jason . Richard Simmons' Housekeeper of 35 Years Breaks Her Silence: 'He Died Happy' (Exclusive) . . August 19, 2024.
  79. Richard Simmons' Death Involved No Foul Play: Source. People. July 19, 2024. July 18, 2024.
  80. Web site: Why Did Fitness Guru Richard Simmons Turn Down Medical Attention After Bathroom Fall?. Yahoo. July 19, 2024. July 15, 2024.
  81. Web site: July 13, 2024 . Richard Simmons, legendary fitness guru, dies at 76, representative confirms . July 13, 2024 . ABC7 Los Angeles . en . July 13, 2024 . https://web.archive.org/web/20240713210315/https://abc7.com/post/richard-simmons-legendary-fitness-guru-dies-76-representative/15056821/ . live .
  82. Web site: Osborne . Mark . July 13, 2024 . Fitness guru Richard Simmons dead at 76 . July 13, 2024 . ABC News . en.
  83. Sheeler . Jason . Richard Simmons' Housekeeper of 35 Years Breaks Her Silence: 'He Died Happy' (Exclusive) . . en.
  84. https://www.yahoo.com/entertainment/richard-simmons-brother-reveals-fitness-204000403.html Richard Simmons’ Brother Reveals Fitness Guru Was Buried in Workout Outfit Beneath Clothes During Celebration of Life Speech
  85. Web site: Richard Simmons' Brother Reveals Late Exercise Guru's Cause of Death. Yahoo. August 21, 2024. August 21, 2024.
  86. Web site: Richard Simmons' Team Shares His Final Prepared Social Media Post 1 Week After Death. Glenn. Garner. Deadline Hollywood. July 21, 2024. July 22, 2024.
  87. Web site: Brasted . Chelsea . Wells . Carlie . Richard Simmons memorial . axios.com/local/new-orleans . Axios New Orleans . 4 October 2024.
  88. Book: Simmons, Richard. Never Say Diet. Richard Simmons. Warner Books. New York City. 1980. 978-0446512091.
  89. Book: Simmons, Richard. Never Say Diet Cookbook. Richard Simmons. Warner Books. New York City. 1982. 978-0446512435.
  90. Book: Simmons, Richard. The Better Body Book. Richard Simmons. 1st. Warner Books. New York City. 1985. 978-0446512633.
  91. Book: Simmons, Richard. Deal-A-Meal Cookbook. Richard Simmons. Spiral-bound. Deal-a-meal, Inc. Beverly Hills, California. 1987. B00071E0XA. March 7, 2017. March 7, 2017. https://web.archive.org/web/20170307205114/https://www.amazon.com/Richard-Simmons-Deal-Meal-Cookbook/dp/B000OU9CIM. live.
  92. Book: Simmons, Richard. Reach for Fitness: A Special Book of Exercises for the Physically Challenged. Richard Simmons. 1st. Warner Books. New York City. 1986. 978-0446513029.
  93. Book: Simmons, Richard. Richard Simmons' Never Give Up: Inspirations, Reflections, Stories of Hope. Richard Simmons. 1st. Warner Books. New York City. 1993. 978-0446517034.
  94. Book: Simmons, Richard. Farewell to Fat. Richard Simmons. 1st. GT Publishing Corporation. New York City. 1996. 978-1577191025.
  95. Book: Simmons, Richard. Sweetie Pie: The Richard Simmons Private Collection of Dazzling Desserts. Richard Simmons. 1st. GT Publishing Corporation. New York City. 1997. 978-1577192763.
  96. Book: Simmons, Richard. Still Hungry After All These Years: My Story. registration. Richard Simmons. 1st. GT Publishing Corporation. New York City. 1999. 978-1577193562.
  97. Book: Simmons, Richard. The Food Mover Cookbook. Richard Simmons. Spiral-bound. GT Publishing Corporation. New York City. 1999. 978-1577197591.
  98. Book: Simmons, Richard. Cookin' on Broadway. Richard Simmons. Spiral-bound. GT Publishing Corporation. New York City. 2000. B001TNS414. March 7, 2017. March 7, 2017. https://web.archive.org/web/20170307204350/https://www.amazon.com/Cookin-Broadway-Richard-Simmons/dp/B001TNS414. live.
  99. Book: Simmons, Richard. Steam Away the Pounds. Richard Simmons. Pascoe Publishing, Inc. Rocklin, California. 2006. 978-1929862610.
  100. Project Me. Richard. Simmons. Richard Simmons. Compact Cassette. Deal-a-meal, Inc. Beverly Hills, California. 1991. B000GE9Y5W. March 7, 2017. March 8, 2017. https://web.archive.org/web/20170308133800/https://www.amazon.com/Project-Motivational-Tapes-Richard-Simmons/dp/B000GE9Y5W. live.
  101. Take a Walk. Richard. Simmons. Richard Simmons. Compact Cassette. Deal-a-meal, Inc. Beverly Hills, California. 1991. B000KMHGCI. March 7, 2017. March 8, 2017. https://web.archive.org/web/20170308134047/https://www.amazon.com/Richard-Simmons-Fitness-Walking-Program/dp/B000KMHGCI. live.
  102. Take a Hike. Richard. Simmons. Richard Simmons. Compact Cassette. Deal-a-meal, Inc. Beverly Hills, California. 1991. B000YQLSN8. March 7, 2017. March 8, 2017. https://web.archive.org/web/20170308044532/https://www.amazon.com/Take-Walk-Hike-Richard-Simmons/dp/B000YQLSN8. live.
  103. Sweatin' and Sharin' With Richard Simmons & Friends. Richard. Simmons. Richard Simmons. Compact Cassette. GT Publishing Corporation. New York City. 1994. B000GYZC8K. March 7, 2017. March 8, 2017. https://web.archive.org/web/20170308044816/https://www.amazon.com/Sweatin-Sharin-Richard-Simmons-Friends/dp/B000GYZC8K. live.
  104. Walk Across America. Richard. Simmons. Richard Simmons. Compact Cassette. GT Publishing Corporation. New York City. 1995. B000P527CE. March 7, 2017. March 8, 2017. https://web.archive.org/web/20170308134039/https://www.amazon.com/Richard-Simmons-Across-America-AUDIOBOOK/dp/B000P527CE. live.
  105. Colors of Your Life. Richard. Simmons. Richard Simmons. Compact Cassette. The Richard Simmons Living Trust. Beverly Hills, California. 1998. B000F3R72G. March 7, 2017. March 8, 2017. https://web.archive.org/web/20170308134042/https://www.amazon.com/Colors-Your-Life-RICHARD-SIMMONS/dp/B000F3R72G. live.
  106. Colors of Your Life. Richard. Simmons. Richard Simmons. Compact Cassette. The Richard Simmons Living Trust. Beverly Hills, California. 1998. B0009WPKQ8. March 7, 2017. March 8, 2017. https://web.archive.org/web/20170308044721/https://www.amazon.com/Richard-Simmons-Colors-Audio-Collection/dp/B0009WPKQ8. live.
  107. Secrets of the Winners. Richard. Simmons. Richard Simmons. Compact Cassette. The Richard Simmons Living Trust. Beverly Hills, California. 1998. B0002JL96I.
  108. Never Give Up: Inspirations, Reflections, Stories of Hope. Abridged. Richard. Simmons. Richard Simmons. Compact Cassette. Audio Renaissance. Southfield, Michigan. 1993. 978-1559272193. March 8, 2017. March 8, 2017. https://web.archive.org/web/20170308223422/https://www.amazon.com/Richard-Simmons-Never-Give-Inspirations/dp/1559272198. live.
  109. Oh Happy Day. Richard. Simmons. Richard Simmons. Audio CD. Somerset Entertainment. Mood Media. Austin, Texas. January 3, 2006. March 7, 2017. B000DGY0C0. March 8, 2017. https://web.archive.org/web/20170308044250/https://www.amazon.com/Richard-Simmons-Happy-Day-Simmons/dp/B000DGY0C0. live.
  110. Wicked Workout. Audio CD. January 3, 2006. Somerset Entertainment. Mood Media. Austin, Texas. March 8, 2017. B000DGY0CK. March 8, 2017. https://web.archive.org/web/20170308220959/https://www.amazon.com/Richard-Simmons-Wicked-Workout-Simmons/dp/B000DGY0CK. live.
  111. Book: Kent, David. David Kent (historian). Australian Chart Book 1970–1992. illustrated. Australian Chart Book. St Ives, N.S.W.. 1993. 0-646-11917-6. 274.
  112. Richard Simmons and the Silver Foxes. DVD. Warner Home Video. Warner Bros.. Burbank, California. December 14, 2004. March 8, 2017. B0004Z32ME. March 9, 2017. https://web.archive.org/web/20170309060401/https://www.amazon.com/Richard-Simmons-Silver-Foxes/dp/B0004Z32ME. live.
  113. Disco Sweat. DVD. Gaiam Vivendi Entertainment. Gaiam. Universal City, California. April 9, 2002. March 8, 2017. B0000541WK. March 8, 2017. https://web.archive.org/web/20170308221456/https://www.amazon.com/Richard-Simmons-Disco-Sweat/dp/B0000541WK. live.
  114. Sweatin' to the Oldies. DVD. Time Life Entertainment. Time Life. New York City. March 14, 2008. March 8, 2017. B001U2QEP2. March 8, 2017. https://web.archive.org/web/20170308220808/https://www.amazon.com/Sweatin-Oldies-Vol-Richard-Simmons/dp/B001U2QEP2. live.
  115. Sweatin' to the Oldies 2. DVD. Time Life Entertainment. Time Life. New York City. June 3, 2008. March 8, 2017. B0017HEYGG. March 8, 2017. https://web.archive.org/web/20170308223731/https://www.amazon.com/Richard-Simmons-Sweatin-Oldies-Vol/dp/B0017HEYGG. live.
  116. Sweatin' to the Oldies 3. DVD. Time Life Entertainment. Time Life. New York City. January 1, 2007. March 8, 2017. B003RLNW3G. March 8, 2017. https://web.archive.org/web/20170308220022/https://www.amazon.com/Richard-Simmons-Sweatin-Oldies-3/dp/B003RLNW3G. live.
  117. Sweatin' to the Oldies 4. DVD. Time Life Entertainment. Time Life. New York City. April 9, 2013. March 8, 2017. B000Z8H1ZE. March 8, 2017. https://web.archive.org/web/20170308223602/https://www.amazon.com/Sweatin-Oldies-Vol-20-Years/dp/B000Z8H1ZE. live.
  118. Sweatin' to the Oldies 5. DVD. Time Life Entertainment. Time Life. New York City. December 14, 2010. March 8, 2017. B003KIAWOS. March 8, 2017. https://web.archive.org/web/20170308222646/https://www.amazon.com/Sweatin-Oldies-5-Richard-Simmons/dp/B003KIAWOS. live.
  119. Reach for Fitness – A Special Video of Exercises for the Physically Challenged. November 15, 1994. VHS. B00000680E. Gt Media, Inc.. GT Publishing Corporation. New York City. March 7, 2017. March 7, 2017. https://web.archive.org/web/20170307205552/https://www.amazon.com/Reach-Fitness-Exercises-Physically-Challenged/dp/B00000680E. live.
  120. Sweatin' to the Oldies 3. VHS. GoodTimes Home Video. GoodTimes Entertainment. New York City. December 11, 2001. March 8, 2017. B00005T33C. March 8, 2017. https://web.archive.org/web/20170308222019/https://www.amazon.com/Richard-Simmons-Sweatin-Oldies-Vol/dp/B00005T33C. live.
  121. Broadway Sweat. VHS. GoodTimes Home Video. GoodTimes Entertainment. New York City. January 1, 2000. March 7, 2017. B0001LWYDE. March 8, 2017. https://web.archive.org/web/20170308044246/https://www.amazon.com/Richard-Simmons-Broadway-Aerobic-Musical/dp/B0001LWYDE. live.
  122. Farewell to Fat. December 1, 1998. VHS. B00000G3CA. Warner Home Video. Warner Bros.. Burbank, California. March 7, 2017. March 7, 2017. https://web.archive.org/web/20170307205552/https://www.amazon.com/Reach-Fitness-Exercises-Physically-Challenged/dp/B00000680E. live.
  123. YouTube video – Hair Do (Official Music Video). August 22, 2013. February 23, 2019. April 15, 2023. https://web.archive.org/web/20230415142017/https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=XEbVq8pb3QE. live.
  124. Web site: Get Shovelized/T Is for Trouble. July 9, 2004. IMDb. July 13, 2024. April 5, 2023. https://web.archive.org/web/20230405083206/https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0616712/. live.

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