Richard Simmons Died from Accidental Blunt Traumatic Injuries, Medical Examiner Says

Mar. 15, 2025

Fitness icon Richard Simmons in 1992.Photo:Harry Langdon/Getty

Harry Langdon/Getty

Richard Simmons’ official cause of death was the result of blunt traumatic injuries, the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office said in a Thursday, Aug. 22press release. The manner of death was ruled as an accident.

Arteriosclerotic cardiovascular disease was also a contributing condition to Simmons' cause of death.

Richard Simmons in 2013.Rodrigo Vaz/Getty

Rodrigo Vaz/Getty

The statement confirms what the Simmons family spokesperson, Tom Estey,told PEOPLEin a statement on Aug. 21.

“This morning, Richard Simmons' brother Lenny, received a call from the LA Coroner’s office," Estey said. “The Coroner informed Lenny that 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. The Family wishes to thank everyone for their outpouring of love and support during this time of great loss.”

Although the Los Angeles Police Department said “there is no foul play,”officially determining the wellness guru’s death was deferred, due to additional testing.

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Earlier reportssaid that Simmons had felt dizzy following a fall in his home on July 12, and that he told his housekeeper that if he still felt ill, he might seek medical care the next day.

News of his death sparked anoutpouring of messagesfrom fans and colleagues alike.

Fellow fitness guru, and longtime pal,Denise Austinshareda tributeon Instagram, writing that her “heart is hurting.”

“I am heartbroken, as he is someone l have known and started the aerobics business with over 40 years ago,” she wrote. “Every time we were together we had so much fun… filled with hugs, laughter and tears.”

AndWhose Line Is It Anyway’sGreg Proops wrote on X, “Richard Simmons was a lovely man. Gracious and funny. Likely our most popular guest,” he wrote, referencing Simmons’ June 2003 appearance on the show.

In the late ’80s, Richard Simmons launched his iconic fitness series, ‘Sweatin’ to the Oldies'.Courtesy Everett

Courtesy Everett

Over the course of his career, Simmons had produced more than 50 workout videos — including his memorable franchise,Sweatin’ to the Oldies,which sold more than 22 million copies — and advocated for portion control with top-selling meal plans likeDeal-a-Meal.

He was widely beloved, but as his brotherLenny had told PEOPLE, “I don’t want people to be sad about my brother.”

“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,” Lenny told PEOPLE.

Simmons’ family rep, Estey, told PEOPLE, “The world has truly lost an angel.”

source: people.com