According to his spokesperson who broke his six-year silence, Richard Simmons, the beloved fitness icon, is currently living the life he has selected, as reported by The Post.
Simmons’ rep, Tom Estey, spoke Friday following the release of a new documentary about the workout king’s sudden disappearance from the spotlight.
Richard, living a healthy life, has chosen to live this way. Estey mentioned to “The Post” that Richard has received continuous outpourings of gratitude and love from all over the world, and he is eternally grateful for it.
“Thank you, all, for your generosity and affection. Affectionately, Richard.” Simmons, a 74-year-old, shared his personal message on Facebook last Wednesday, directly stating.
Estey verified that the message was personally written by Simmons, and it was his initial public communication with supporters in six years.
Simmons was one of Hollywood’s biggest stars for more than three decades before he suddenly disappeared from the public eye in 2014.
“TMZ Explores: The Truth Behind Richard Simmons’ Disappearance.” The premiere of the fresh documentary has sparked renewed fascination in the lively fitness expert this week.
The special, streaming on Fox and Hulu, claims that problems with the star’s knees were behind his sudden shunning of the spotlight.
He was being held captive by his housekeeper in order to debunk the unfounded speculations that he had contacted the “Today” show in 2016, yet Simmons has not made a public appearance since 2014.
Supporters were delighted to hear that Simmons was in good condition and high morale, with thousands responding to his Facebook post.
“Richard, it was you whom I knew!” Exclaimed one swooning admirer. “There is no doubt that you never fail to please, and you are greatly loved. You have done so many good things in the lives of many people. Thank you for all that you have done and continue to do. None of us will ever forget you!”
I am eternally thankful to you, as I repeatedly save my own life. I express my gratitude for the peace and happiness you have brought into my life. You deserve to enjoy your time now, as the joy you have given me has been immense over the years. You are hopeful about what is right for you, but Richard, you overlook something. Another person added their opinion.
In the 1980s, after Simmons exploded onto the workout scene, he became a beloved figure, with videos that made exercise accessible to people of all sizes and shapes.
Americans who have long been intimidated by self-serious and well-toned trainers have been helped to feel accessible and enjoy fitness through the lighthearted approach of the superstar. The superstar is dressed in bedazzled tank tops and hot pants.
His 1988 VHS “Exercising To The Oldies” became the highest-selling home fitness video ever, earning over $200 million.
He continued to be a ubiquitous figure in the public eye, appearing on late-night talk shows and fronting infomercials, as well as publishing best-selling cookbooks in the 2000s and 1990s.
However, in 2014, Simmons ceased his public performances, stating issues with his knee.
According to the recent TMZ documentary, he underwent a knee replacement surgery on his right knee, which resulted in a considerable amount of discomfort for him.
Allegedly, after experiencing extreme emotional distress from the initial procedure, he declined to proceed with it. However, doctors later informed him that he also required a replacement for his left knee.
The documentary alleges that Simmons’ knee problems stem from a purported birth “defect,” which supposedly caused both emotional and physical issues. He was born without a full set of bones in his foot, according to the claims made.
Simmons, residing in his Hollywood Hills residence, appears to be thoroughly savoring his retirement, delighting in a serene existence away from the spotlight, despite the rumored health challenges. He has perpetually exhibited introverted tendencies.
