Richard Simmons’ brother, Lenny, has confirmed that the fitness guru has died of natural causes.
In a statement shared with People magazine, a Simmons family spokesperson said Renee received a call from the Los Angeles Coroner’s Office informing her that Simmons’ death was “accidental, due in part to complications from a recent fall and cardiac issues.”
The representative also confirmed that toxicology tests “came back negative for all medications other than those prescribed to Richard.” Simmons’ family also expressed their gratitude for “the love and support shown to them by their fans during this time of great loss.”
The ’80s icon died at his Los Angeles home on July 13, one day after his 76th birthday. A housekeeper discovered him that morning and called 911.
“I don’t want people to mourn for my brother,” Renee said in a statement to The Hollywood Reporter upon Simmons’ death. “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 please don’t be sad. Please celebrate his life.”
TMZ reported that the night before Simmons died, he felt dizzy and fell in the bathroom, and despite his housekeeper’s urging him to see a doctor, he refused medical attention. Simmons told her he wanted to see a doctor the next day, and she complied with his wishes and helped him back to bed.
That night, Simmons sent one final message to his fans on Facebook, thanking them for the birthday wishes: “Thank you… I’ve never received so many birthday messages in my life! As I sit here writing this email, I hope you all have a fantastic rest of your Friday,” he wrote.
