The cause of death of iconic exercise guru Richard Simmons was announced Wednesday by his brother, Lenny.
Simmons died on July 13 at the age of 76 from “complications from a recent fall and heart disease.” New York Post.
The fitness star’s brother said he was contacted about the case by the Los Angeles Coroner’s Office on Wednesday morning.
Richard Simmons’ cause of death revealed by brother Lenny at age 76 https://t.co/IiREmEqcP0 pic.twitter.com/LzlOFvbzrL
— New York Post (@nypost) August 21, 2024
“The coroner informed Renee that Richard’s death was an accident, with complications from a recent fall and heart disease contributing factors.” said “Toxicology tests came back negative, with the exception of the medications that Richard had been prescribed,” family spokesman Tom Esty said.
“The family would like to thank everyone for the outpouring of love and support during this time of great loss,” Estey added.
According to housekeeper Teresa Reveles, Simmons had suffered a serious fall just days before her death on July 11. Simmons reportedly refused to seek medical treatment for her injuries.
Reveles said Simmons wanted to wait until his birthday, July 12, for medical attention, but by then he had passed away.
The 1980s icon has not been seen in public for several years. In fact, when a biopic starring comedian Pauly Shore was released in 2023, Simmons admitted that he no longer has an agent or manager and “just wants to live quietly and peacefully.”
Reveles added that Simmons retired from teaching fitness classes because his declining health meant he was no longer “being himself.”
But Lenny wants people to celebrate his brother’s life and accomplishments and not mourn.
“I don’t want people to be sad about my brother,” Renee said. “I want people to remember 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 offering to help.”
“So don’t be sad. Celebrate his life.”
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