The Daily Insight

Home / politics

Richard Simmons Is ‘Happy’ On 75th Birthday, Rep Says – Hollywood Life

James Olson |
View galleryRichard Simmons Exercise guru Richard Simmons poses with a stuffed pink pig named Lucy in Los Angeles Richard Simmons, Los Angeles, USARichard Simmons 5/23/95 V S D a Video Software Convention Dallas Texas Credit All UsesRichard Simmons - 2000Richard Simmons leads a group of Capitol Hill staffers and tourists in an exercise routine.Exercise Guru, Richard Simmons promoting programmes to fight obesity, Washington DC, America - 24 Jul 2008American fitness guru Richard Simmons brought his own brand of fitness to Washington after testifying before the House Education Committee on childhood obesity. The 60-year-old would like to see the government doing more to tackle the issue of childhood obesity and is also pushing for increased school exercise programs. "Our children today will not live as long as their parents. What have we done? What have we done to the kids of the United States of America! This is wrong! And I will dedicate the rest of my life!" he said; adding that not everyone can be an athlete but everyone can be fit, he said schools need to hire certified fitness instructors. While giving his testimony Simmons, who hinted that he may even run for office, was dressed in a smart black suit. However, he then quickly changed into a more familiar outfit of tiny striped shorts and red top to give an impromptu fitness session outside.
Image Credit: Everett Collection

Richard Simmons turned 75 on Wednesday and is feeling “happy” about it, according to his rep Tom Estey. “This is a big milestone. I just want to see him happy, which he is,” Tom told ET about the fitness icon’s special day. Although Richard hasn’t been publicly seen since 2014, this latest statement and other previous statements from those who know him best, indicate he’s doing just fine.

“He’s doing very well. He’s his jovial self. He spends most of his time at home and in his yard,” Richard’s friend told ET when he turned 70 back in 2018. “He keeps up with his reading and does what he wants to do. He deserves this time to himself. Seventy years is a milestone but he doesn’t look at it that way.”

Richard Simmons
Richard smiles for an older photo. (Everett Collection)

Richard, himself, took to Facebook last year to speak out after a documentary, which was about how he disappeared from the spotlight after his successful career as a fitness instructor, speculated on his whereabouts. “Thank you, everyone, for your kindness and love! Love Richard,” he wrote. Tom also addressed his feelings to the New York Post at the time. “Richard is eternally grateful for the continuous outpouring of love and gratitude he has received from across the globe. He is happy, healthy and living the life he has chosen to live.”

In 2017, the Daily Mail reported that Richard was photographed while leaving a hospital in Beverly Hills, CA. In the photos, there was a black and gold patterned blanket wrapped around him and all that could be seen were his black sweat pants and white sneakers as his longtime housekeeper Teresa Reveles helped him leave the building. The outlet reported that he was hospitalized for indigestion and had been there for four days.

Richard Simmons
Richard in his workout gear. (Everett Collection)

In 2020, Richard, who gained fame in the 1970s and 1980s, posted memorable workout videos to his official YouTube page to help those staying home to stay active during the COVID pandemic. He also started regularly posting on Twitter to encourage his fans to “get up and move.” His latest social media message was on Facebook on New Year’s Day 2023. “If you didn’t take good care of your health last year, start today and make this your year! Happy New Year to all of you!” it read.

You Might Also Like