Richard Simmons has been found dead a day after his 76th birthday – and four months after he was struck by skin cancer, RadarOnline.com can reveal.
The fitness fanatic – who was so full of energy that he found it too tiring to be in the public eye for the past decade – was discovered at his home on Belfast Drive, Los Angeles, at around 10am, police have confirmed.
Simmons became a household name for his enthusiastic training programs and positive attitude towards health.
On Friday, July 12, he took to Facebook to share a message of gratitude to his supporters and motivate them to live their best lives. In the post, he expressed his happiness at being alive, showing glimpses of his iconic enthusiasm even despite health issues.
“Thank you… I’ve never gotten so many birthday messages in my life,” Simmons wrote. “I’m sitting here writing emails. Enjoy the best rest of your Friday!”
During a recent interview just before his birthday, Simmons said, “I’m grateful to be here, to be alive to see another day.”
Simmons’ decision to step back from the public eye in 2014 surprised many of his fans and followers. However, he remained active on social media and occasionally shared updates on his health and well-being.
Later in the interview, he provided insight into his personal struggle with cancer, but also served as a beacon of hope and inspiration for those following his fitness journey.
‘Please do not be sad. I’m dying. Oh, I can see your faces now,” Simmons shared. “The truth is that we all die. Every day we live we get closer to death.”
“Why am I telling you this? Because I want you to live your life to the fullest every day,” he continued. “Get up in the morning and look at the sky… count your blessings and enjoy it.”