14 DAY TRIAL // Something is “seriously wrong” with fitness guru and fan-favorite Richard Simmons: the 66-year-old star hasn’t been seen out in public in almost a year, and according to a new troubling report, he’s also shut out most of his friends and close associates.
The last time he was seen in public was in January this year, when he spoke to TMZ paparazzi and wished them a happy New Year, while offering them tips on leading a healthier, much happier life.
He hasn’t been seen since then at all.
Simmons has been battling severe depression and health issues
TMZ reports that this something “seriously wrong” is probably a health-related problem. It is believed that Simmons is also battling depression, stemming from the same problem – but he’s not letting anyone into his life, so friends are worried about him.
Sources close to the star reveal for the e-zine that he fears he might be suffering from a really bad knee. Admittedly, Simmons was told he’d need a knee replacement on his left leg, which, naturally, would mean that he would never be able to work out like before.
On the other hand, if he doesn’t get the surgery, he won’t be able to do that ever again. Since exercise is his career and his life, he’s “paralyzed with fear” at the thought. And sinking deeper into depression.
The same friends claim that he’s stopped picking up calls and has his people turn them away when they try to visit. The reason Simmons hasn’t been seen in the media at all is that he hasn’t been out in 2014 at all.
He even stopped going to his Beverly Hills gym studio, where he used to teach classes. To these unnamed friends, that’s the tell-tale sign that something is very, very wrong.
The report also mentions that Simmons’ associates fear that whatever is troubling him is “more serious” than a bum knee that needs to be operated on. However, it doesn’t elaborate on what that might be.
Health worries have plagued Simmons before
This isn’t the first time that Simmons’ health is getting fans worried about him. In October 2011, he appeared as a special mentor on ABC’s Dancing With the Stars, and though he was as energetic and humorous as always, there was something about his gaunt aspect that started a frantic conversation on social media about how he was dying, or close to.
Many fans thought he looked too thin and frail to be healthy, and assumed that he had been battling some disease (probably cancer) in secret. Most of these fans even put their fears into words, so that Simmons’ rep was actually forced to issue a statement saying that he was fine.
He was more than fine, the publicist assured the fans: he was at his healthiest and happiest, and was even touched by their concern, as unfounded as it might have been.
It’s probably safe to assume the same publicist will also be saying something about the latest report soon.
[Update, November 14, 2012]: Simmons' manager assures fans that he's ok, admits health issues. He is recovering from a knee injury, wants fans to know he's grateful for the support and well-wishes. Richard Simmons' full statement is available at the link.
