He was the American fitness guru who motivated millions around the world.
And it appears that Richard Simmons‘ ability to inspire extended to one of Australia’s most powerful media moguls.
In a recently resurfaced video, former Channel Nine boss Kerry Packer was one of thousands whipped into an aerobics frenzy by Richard at the opening of the Sydney Entertainment Centre back in 1983.
The glittering affair, dubbed ‘Australia’s Entertainment Spectacular’, drew a veritable whose who to the stage, with the likes of Peter Allen, Christopher Cross, John Denver, Marcia Hines and Paul Hogan performing on the night.
But it was when Richard took to the stage, with his trademark effervescence, the crowd truly came alive.
The late billionaire media boss can be seen gleefully waving his arms in the air with abandon in the clip, along with a packed house of aerobics enthusiasts that also included former NSW Premier Neville Wran.
Packer beamed broadly and was more than happy to take instruction from Richard.
The Sydney Entertainment Centre, later known as Qantas Credit Union Arena, was opened in May 1983 at a cost of $42million.
It was eventually demolished in 2016, with Aussie icons Cold Chisel and Elton John playing the final concerts at the iconic venue.Â
Packer died of kidney failure on Boxing Day 2005, just nine days after his 68th birthday.Â
Simmons, meanwhile, died in his home in the Hollywood Hills on July 13, 2024.
Speaking to People just two days prior to his death he revealed that he was aware of the long-standing fondness his fans had for him.Â
‘I know people miss me,’ Simmons told the outlet.Â
‘And you know what? I miss them, too. But I’m able to reach them through phone calls… and through emails.’
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