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| Richard Simmons in 2011. Click to enlarge. |
Bubbly, bouncy Richard Simmons died yesterday at his home in Hollywood Hills, just a day after his 76th birthday. I'll be honest, I never liked or watched his show: too silly and way too, um, fruity! Your Head Trucker never wanted to be that damn obvious: there's safety in camouflage and just keeping your gay mouth shut. And apparently Richard never spoke about his sexuality one way or the other in public.
But twinkly, sparkly Richard had a huge fan base, and thousands claimed his exercise and diet routines saved or greatly improved their lives. I have read that during personal appearances he would hug his fans, weep with them over personal stories, and even pray with them. So at the end of the day, with so many testimonials, I say he was a sweet guy who used his fabulous talents to do much good for others, so he's OK in my book. And no doubt St. Peter will smile and wave him right on through the Pearly Gates, toll-free. May he rest in peace.
I couldn't find a single-song tape to play for you, but you can listen to just the first one on this. Got your dancing clothes on? Well move it, girlfriend!
Update, 7/21/24: Richard's "team" has shared his final social media message to his fans, written but not yet posted at the time of his death.
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