Richard Simmons, the beloved fitness icon known for his exuberant personality and dedication to helping others, passed away on July 13, 2024, just one day after celebrating his 76th birthday. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office has officially determined his cause of death to be an accident resulting from “sequelae of blunt traumatic injuries,” with “arteriosclerotic cardiovascular disease” listed as a contributing factor.
The medical report reveals that Simmons experienced an episode of dizziness and collapsed on the evening of July 11. He was discovered the following morning but spent the day resting in bed. Tragically, on the morning of July 13, he was found unresponsive on the floor of his bedroom and was pronounced dead at the scene.
A spokesperson for the Simmons family, Tom Estey, had previously shared that the Coroner’s findings were consistent with accidental death due to complications from recent falls, with heart disease as a contributing factor. The toxicology report was clear except for prescribed medications.
Simmons’ death marks the end of a remarkable life dedicated to fitness and self-care, with the icon having reflected on his legacy just days before his passing. Despite his retirement, he had been planning a comeback with a Broadway musical still in the works at the time of his death. Co-writer Patrick Leonard expressed hope that the project would move forward, emphasizing the importance of staying true to Simmons’ life and legacy.
Simmons’ passing has left a profound impact on his many fans and loved ones, who continue to honor his memory and contributions to the world of fitness.