Staff Reports
Celebrity fitness icon Richard Simmons caused quite a stir on social media this week with a cryptic message about “dying.” The 75-year-old fitness guru shared a post that had his followers in a tizzy, only to later clarify that he is, in fact, not on the verge of kicking the bucket.
Fitness guru Richard Simmons says he’s ‘dying,’ then apologizes for confusion https://t.co/gjoeEzSRh0 https://t.co/gjoeEzSRh0
— Washington Examiner (@dcexaminer) March 19, 2024
In the initial post, Simmons started off by dropping the bombshell news, stating, “I have some news to tell you. Please don’t be sad. I am… dying.” But before you start planning the memorial service, hold up! Simmons quickly followed that up with a somewhat philosophical take, reminding everyone that, in reality, we’re all marching toward our inevitable demise each day. Way to bring the mood down, Richard.
Then, just when his followers were probably reaching for the tissues, Simmons shifted gears and started doling out life advice like a zen master. He urged everyone to embrace each day with gratitude, prioritize healthy eating habits, and even plugged his workout videos on YouTube. Heck, I guess when you’re not dying, you’ve got to keep the fitness hustle alive, right?
But fear not, concerned citizens, because, as quickly as the panic set in, Simmons swooped in to save the day with a follow-up post, stating, “Sorry many of you have gotten upset about my message today. Even the press has gotten in touch with me. I am not dying.” Phew! Crisis averted, folks.
This episode comes on the heels of Simmons resurfacing in the public eye after laying low for some time. He recently made waves by speaking out against an unauthorized biopic about his life, vehemently claiming he never gave his consent for the project. Even actor Pauly Shore, who was supposed to portray Simmons, stepped in to clarify that the film was made out of love and not to poke fun at the fitness legend.
Known for his bubbly and motivational persona, Simmons rose to fame in the ’80s and ’90s with his popular Sweatin’ to the Oldies aerobics line and numerous TV appearances. So, it looks like the fitness icon may not be leaving us just yet, but who knows if this rollercoaster of drama is just the warm-up for a bigger reveal down the road. Stay tuned, fitness fanatics!
