Richard Simmons apologizes for cryptic Facebook post saying he’s ‘dying’
Richard Simmons has issued an apology to fans following an attention-grabbing social media post that left many concerned for his health and well-being.
The eccentric fitness personality — who rose to fame on daytime TV in the 1980s but has lived a reclusive life for much of the past decade — apologized for a cryptic Facebook message Monday morning in which he shared “news” with his followers that he’s “dying.”
He returned to the platform hours later to address the worrisome post.
“Sorry many of you have gotten upset about my message today. Even the press has gotten in touch with me. I am not dying,” he wrote on his verified Facebook account. “It was a message about saying how we should embrace every day that we have. Sorry for the confusion. Love, Richard.”
The 75-year-old “Sweatin’ to the Oldies” star ignited a firestorm of concern with what was intended to be motivational message, encouraging everyone to live life to the fullest.
“I have some news to tell you. Please don’t be sad. I am …. dying,” Simmons began. “Oh I can see your faces now. The truth is we all are dying. Every day we live we are getting closer to our death.”
“Why am I telling you this? Because I want you to enjoy your life to the fullest every single day,” he continued. “Get up in the morning and look at the sky… count your blessings and enjoy.”
He ended his message by saying, “If you have time I want you to listen to a terrific song. It is by Tim McGraw, it is called ‘Live Like You Were Dying’. Live today and don’t forget to pray.”
The famous fitness fanatic also found himself in the center of controversy earlier this year when actor Pauly Shore announced he’d be playing Richard Simmons in “The Court Jester,” a biopic project set to premiere at the 2024 Sundance Film Festival.
On the same day the film’s teaser dropped, Simmons came out of seclusion to confirm he had not authorized the “Encino Man” star to do the project.
“I no longer have a manager, and I no longer have a publicist,” Simmons revealed. “I just try to live a quiet life and be peaceful. Thank you for all your love and support.”