Arts & Entertainment

Richard Simmons' Cause of Death Revealed: Report

The family of the fitness guru revealed the circumstances surrounding Simmons' July death.

Richard Simmons, pictured in 2006, died at his Hollywood Hills home on July 13.
Richard Simmons, pictured in 2006, died at his Hollywood Hills home on July 13. (AP Photo/Tina Fineberg)

HOLLYWOOD, CA — Richard Simmons' death was accidental, his family said Wednesday in a statement that detailed the circumstances surrounding the 76-year-old fitness guru's passing last month, People reported.

Simmons was found dead July 13 in his Hollywood Hills home, a day after celebrating his 76th birthday.

A representative of Simmons' family on Wednesday issued a statement to People detailing Simmons' cause of death, citing information from the Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner provided to Simmons' brother.

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"Richard's death was accidental due to complications from recent falls and heart disease as a contributing factor. The toxicology report was negative other than medication Richard had been prescribed," reads the statement.

Simmons had fallen in his bathroom the night of his birthday but refused to go to the hospital. His housekeeper found him dead on his bedroom floor the next morning, TMZ reported.

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After Simmons' death, the Los Angeles Police Department said no foul play was expected, though his cause of death was deferred by the medical examiner pending additional tests.

Simmons, who had revealed a skin cancer diagnosis in March 2024, had lately dropped out of sight, sparking speculating about his health and well-being.

The former 268-pound teen shared weight loss and fitness tips in best-selling books, an Emmy-winning daytime show, a series of exercise videos and a chain of fitness studios as he became a household name in the 1980s. He was known for his upbeat personality and flamboyant attire.

Just two days before he died, Simmons told People he was feeling well.

"I feel good! I am grateful that I'm here, that I am alive for another day. I'll spend my birthday doing what I do every day, which is to help people," he said.

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