Simmons made multiple appearances on TV
Simmons boosted his appeal by often making appearances on TV and radio shows as well as featuring in adverts.
Among his media appearances, he appeared on Late Show With David Letterman and The Howard Stern Show.
He also popped up in the long-running TV show General Hospital as well as Arrested Development.
Inside Richard Simmons’ popularity
Simmons became a household name as a fitness expert, helped by his eccentric and flamboyant personality.
He also released a series of aerobics videos.
Simmons began his weight-loss career by opening his exercise studio called The Anatomy Asylum, which later became known as Slimmons, in Beverly Hills and went on to find fame due to his media appearances as well as the promotion of his products.
Fitness guru opens up about closing gym
While discussing his now-defunct fitness studio, Richard told fans via Facebook: “When I opened Slimmons in 1974, I simply couldn’t wait to tell everyone that food could be healthy AND delicious or that exercise could be fun!
“I worked my little striped shorts off to spread the message that you must move your body every day, that portion size matters, and that while others may not always be kind to you, you must be kind to yourself.
“I made countless friends along the way and I hope I changed a few lives for the better.”
He added: “You know, I’ve always said I am with you every step of the way.
“And you have been with me, at my side always, in happy times and sad.
“We laughed and cried together and have memories to last ten lifetimes.”Play Video
Simmons was previously diagnosed with cancer
Simmons revealed on social media that he was diagnosed with Basal cell carcinoma — the most common form of skin cancer.
The fitness star said he went to see a dermatologist after finding a bump under his eye that wouldn’t go away.
“Now I am getting a little bit nervous. He comes back about 20 minutes later and says the C word. ‘You have cancer,'” he recalled.
“I asked him what kind of cancer and he said. Basal Cell Carcinoma. I told him to stop calling me dirty names. He laughed.”
Same old cheerful self
Simmons was known for his flamboyant fitness tapes and DVDs during the 1980s.
He was cheery as ever in his final post on social media before his death today.
“Hello gorgeous! Please don’t rain on my parade,” read his last comment on Facebook on Saturday morning.
Fitness guru closes Slimmons Fitness
On November 19, 2016, Richard announced he was closing Slimmons Fitness to make “a new beginning” for himself.
In a Facebook post, he shared: “I have never been very good with beginnings and endings.
“This may come as a surprise to some of you but I am not the most patient person.
“I traveled the country, appeared in malls and convention halls, talk shows, news segments, and made more guest appearances than I can name.
“Well, it’s been over forty years now, and I am finally taking my own advice.”
He further explained: “I am being kind to myself, and putting myself first.