Richard Simmons was a delight to everyone who encountered him on or offline, even up until his final days. The celebrity fitness guru’s life has been a lesson of hope, comebacks, and the fickleness of life as friends and fans remember his selfless nature even while battling issues in private.
Richard only spent a day being 76, however he left behind an impact that will outlive him for decades to come. He told PEOPLE during his final interview that he was grateful to be alive, and shared an update about his much-anticipated Broadway musical with composer Patrick Leonard.
Richard Simmons’ final days
A decade ago, Richard suddenly withdrew from the spotlight, abandoning his popular fitness studio, Slimmons Studio, in Los Angeles. He would later admit that he simply needed rest and a breather from the demanding celebrity life. During this 10-year hiatus, there were rumors about him being held hostage by his housekeeper, Teresa Reveles, but he recalled being out in disguise several times.
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Richard’s time away from the spotlight did not stop him from reaching out to fans, as he dedicated time to responding to over 100 emails a day. He credited his heart for people to his parents, who he watched take shelter people and help the needy growing up.
Richard’s short-lived comeback
Earlier this year, he announced his skin cancer diagnosis, specifically Basal Cell Carcinoma, which he had treated by a certain Dr. Ralph A. Massey.
Two months later, and with the cancer gone, Richard announced his intention to create an interactive Broadway play, which would let members of the audience work out in an open space beside the stage. At the time of his passing, Richard had written 14 songs with the help of Leonard. In all, Simmons was excited about life, about his comeback, and had big plans. He will surely be missed.