Richard Simmons brother Lenny Simmons has shared a heartfelt tribute to the fitness guru following his death as he told fans of his devastation over the loss of his sibling
Fitness Guru Richard Simmons’ brother has shared a touching tribute to the late star following his death.
Taking to Richard’s social media account on X, Lenny Simmons told fans of his heartbreak at the loss of his sibling as he highlighted how much his fans meant to Richard. He wrote: “Hello Everyone, 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. He truly cared about people.
“He called, wrote, and emailed thousands of people throughout his career to offer help. So don’t be sad. Celebrate his life! He was very excited about all of the upcoming ventures he was working on. We are in shock. Please respect the family at this difficult time. Lenny Simmons.”
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Police reportedly responded to a call from Richard’s housekeeper before 10 a.m. PST on Saturday. He was pronounced dead at the scene with no foul play expected at this time. Officials indicated that Richard fell in the bathroom before his death. A representative for Richard confirmed his death to ABC News. The Mirror contacted the Los Angeles Police Department for comment.
The fitness guru celebrated his birthday on Friday, thanking fans for their kind messages and signs of support. In fact, the star tweeted just hours before his reported death, writing on X, formerly known as Twitter : “Thank you…I never got so many messages about my birthday in my life! I am sitting here writing emails. Have a most beautiful rest of your Friday. Love, Richard.”
Before his death, Richard reflected on his life, including sharing a story about his first birthday. He shared a picture of him as a child and explained that his mother never baked their cakes, but rather purchased them from different bakeries. Richard also explained that it was his birthday when they filmed Groovin in the House. He said: “That one was a three dimensional three foot cake in the shape of one of my Dalmatians … You know I cried. So many of you have sent me birthday wishes on my Facebook and other platforms. I really appreciate that.”
Additionally, he wished all of his fans “healthy” birthdays going forward. It was an on-brand move for the fitness instructor, known for his workout home videos. Richard rose to popularity for his flamboyant style and high-energy motivation that appealed to the masses.
A fan on X, formerly known as Twitter, wrote: “Richard Simmons preached exercise, diet and most of all kindness. He positively impacted thousands and thousands of lives. I’m one of the hundreds and hundreds of TV people who basked in his energy and readily accepted those crazy hugs. Rest well.”
Another said: “Rest in peace Richard Simmons. Not only was he a beacon of body positivity, he was also responsible for one the funniest moments ever put on television.”