Fitness Icon Richard Simmons Dead at 76 – E! Online

The wellness world is mourning a tragic loss. 

Richard Simmons—the legendary fitness guru and health coach—has died, law enforcement sources confirmed to NBC News July 13. He was 76. 

Police responded to a call from his housekeeper on the morning of July 13, and upon their arrival at his Hollywood Hills home, he was pronounced dead on the scene, according to the outlet. A cause of death is still pending, NBC News reports. 

Following the news of the fitness personality’s death, his brother Lenny Simmons said the family was “in shock,” noting his brother’s excitement for his upcoming ventures, before offering a heartfelt message to fans.

“I don’t want people to be sad about my brother,” he said in a statement to E! News. “I want them to remember him for 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 to offer help. So don’t be sad. Celebrate his life.”

Simmons’ rep also told E! News, “Today Heaven gained an Angel. May we all celebrate the memory of this extraordinary human.”