In Memoriam: Richard Simmons, Beloved Fitness Guru (1948-2023)In Memoriam: Richard Simmons, Beloved Fitness Guru (1948-2023) The entertainment world mourns the passing of fitness icon and former General Hospital star Richard Simmons, who succumbed at the age of 76. Born Milton Teagle Simmons on July 12, 1948, Richard rose to prominence in the 1970s through his eponymous exercise program and motivational messages. His appearances on General Hospital as himself, teaching fitness classes, left an indelible mark on daytime television. Early Career and Soap Opera Impact Simmons first graced the General Hospital stage in 1979, captivating viewers with his infectious enthusiasm and signature catchphrase, “Sweatin’ to the Oldies!” His fitness routines, tailored specifically for the female characters on the show, became legendary, inspiring countless women to embrace a healthier lifestyle. Fitness Empire and Legacy Building upon his soap opera success, Simmons launched a thriving fitness business, releasing a series of best-selling workout videos and establishing numerous fitness centers across the country. His message of body positivity and self-acceptance resonated with millions, making him a household name. Later Years and Recent Controversy After retiring from the spotlight in the 2000s, Simmons reemerged in recent years to address concerns about his well-being. He vehemently denied allegations of being held captive and defended his right to privacy. Final Farewell On the eve of his passing, Simmons took to social media to express gratitude for his fans’ birthday wishes. His final message, a playful plea for peace, encapsulates his spirit. Industry Remembers The soap opera community extended its condolences to Simmons’ loved ones, praising his contributions to the genre and his unwavering commitment to health and happiness. His legacy as a fitness icon and television personality will continue to inspire generations to come.
Richard Simmons, who rose to fame through his performances in General Hospital playing himself, has died. The fitness guru was 76.
Memory of Richard
TMZ broke the news of Simmons’ death. He died today, Saturday, July 13, one day after his birthday. Law enforcement sources tell TMZ that foul play is not suspected at this time. A cause of death has not been released.
Simmons made his debut on GH in 1979, playing a version of himself. Before the Port Charles society would dance the night away at the Campus Disco, Richard would teach the women of Port Charles there. His fitness students were Laura (Genie Francis), Bobbie (the late Jacklyn Zeman), Lesley (Denise Alexander) and Laura’s friend Beverly (Louise Hoven). Richard provided a supportive shoulder for Beverly, who wanted to get thinner.
Simmons took to social media yesterday to thank fans for remembering his birthday. “Thank you… I’ve never had so many birthday messages in my life! I’m sitting here writing emails. I hope you have a wonderful rest of your Friday. Love, Richard.”
Born Milton Teagle Simmons on July 12, 1948, the fitness guru attended the University of Louisiana at Lafayette and also Florida State University. His last message was from earlier today, which read: “Hi baby! Please don’t ruin my party.”
On the celebrity’s website, he wrote about how, after appearing on a Los Angeles talk show hosted by Regis Philbin, he was invited to join the cast of GH. He first met with then-producer Gloria Monty and the show’s head writer, Pat Falken Smith.
“These ladies were very clever,” Simmon said. “They told me their idea. I would teach fitness classes in a disco for all the ladies on the show. I thought to myself, ‘This is going to be a piece of cake.’
“A week before the show was to be filmed, the studio asked if I could drive by to take some promotional photos,” Simmons continued. Due to a misidentification, he was pulled over by police and taken in for questioning. When authorities realized they had the wrong man, Simmons was released and brought back to the studio.”
After his appearances on GH, Simmons’ fitness business grew. He produced a series of workout videos titled Sweating on the OldiesIn 1995 he appeared as himself in All my childrenSimmons’ last soap appearance was in 2013 on GH. Richard was acting erratically and clashed with Lucy Coe (Lynn Herring) at the ball. He was dragged away by Milo and the members of Milo’s Magic Wands.
Simmons recently made headlines after speaking out against a Pauly Shore biopic about him. “I don’t have a manager anymore, I don’t have a publicist anymore,” Simmons said when he asked for privacy. “I’m just trying to live a quiet life and be peaceful. Thank you for all the love and support.”
Soap Hub extends his sincere condolences to Simmons’ family and friends during this difficult time.
