Richard Simmons was working on a musical with a top composer when he died.
The fitness guru was found dead at his home on Belfast Drive, Los Angeles, after emergency workers responded to a 911 call from his housekeeper and arrived at 9.57am on Saturday. (13.07.24)
His death came a day after he turned 76 and four months after he told fans he had been diagnosed with skin cancer.
Fox News Digital said in a story about him turning 76: “Simmons already has big plans for the year ahead. His representative told us the ‘Sweatin’ to the Oldies’ instructor is at work on his Broadway musical and has aligned with acclaimed producer and composer Patrick Leonard, who previously worked with music icons Madonna, Elton John, Bon Jovi and Michael Jackson, to compose the music.”
A spokesperson for the Los Angeles Police Department has confirmed “an investigation is still being conducted” into the fitness icon’s passing, but it is being reported no foul play is suspected.
In March, Richard revealed to his followers he had been diagnosed with skin cancer.
He took to Facebook to detail the moment he found out he had the disease and told in a length post how he underwent an attempt to remove the cancer cells.
Richard
During an interview with People to mark his 76th birthday, Richard said he was staying healthy but planned to allow himself a small dessert in honour of his birthday.
He added: “Maybe one Pepperidge Farm Milano cookie. But just one.”
Richard released dozens of fitness tapes and DVDs including ‘Sweatin’ to the Oldies’, ‘Party off the Pounds’ and more, with fans loving him for his positive energy and flamboyance.
He stepped out of the spotlight in later life due to the demands of maintaining the energy-filled persona in public, but kept his fans updated on his life on social media.
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