Richard Simmons clarifies he is 'not dying' after sharing cryptic social media post, fans say 'good one'

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Richard Simmons’ fans can finally feel relieved as the beloved fitness instructor has clarified he is not actually “dying.”

The former fitness guru, 75, had the internet on edge after posting on Monday morning that he was “dying.” However, after his concerned fans flocked to the internet willing to learn about his whereabouts, Simmons clarified the confusion and even apologized for it, per Page Six.

Clearing the confusion that he was not nearing death, Simmons took to his account on X (formerly Twitter) on Monday, March 18, to write, “Sorry many of you have gotten upset about my message today.”

“Even the press has gotten in touch with me,” wrote the instructor who has been living the life of a recluse for a long.

He confirmed, “I am not dying,” before explaining, “It was a message about saying how we should embrace every day that we have.” He concluded by apologizing for the misunderstanding, writing, “Sorry for this confusion.”

Richard Simmons wrote heartfelt message 

Earlier on Monday, Simmons composed a heartfelt message about enjoying life which may have been misconstrued by his fans because of the concerning first line.

In his message, he explained the importance of seizing the moment before the final goodbye and inspired his fans to lead a happy life before death.

He started the Facebook post by writing in a somber tone, "I have some news to tell you. Please don’t be sad. I am ….dying."

Addressing his fans directly, Simmons said, "Oh I can see your faces now," before explaining the motto of his lengthy message, "The truth is we all are dying. Every day we live we are getting closer to our death."

He then explains the reason for him sharing this as Simmons claims, "I want you to enjoy your life to the fullest every single day. Get up in the morning and look at the sky… count your blessings and enjoy."

He also highlighted the importance of eating healthy, writing, "Start with a healthy breakfast. Do you like oatmeal…. Whole wheat toast ..eggs once or twice a week Fresh fruit or half of an English muffin?" before adding, "Then there is lunch. How about a nice salad? Don’t eat your dinner too late. Combine your protein with a starch and a few vegetables. And sure, once in a while, have dessert. One healthy day of eating will lead to the next…and the next."

Without being preachy, the fitness guru advised, "Every day that you are alive you have got to move. Whether it is standing or sitting you have got move your body every day. Start with stretching then cardio and strength."

He even said that fans can refer to his many YouTube videos for exercising before noting, "And before you go to bed do a little stretching. Stretch your neck. Your shoulders….and your arms…and dont forget your legs. Do some circles with your ankles. Point and flex your feet and I promise that you will have a better night’s sleep."

He continued, "There is something else very important that you must do. Tell the ones that you love that you love them. Hug those people and children who you really care for. A big hug really goes a long way."

He signed off by suggesting his fans listen to Tim McGraw's song 'Live Like You Were Dying' which perfectly embodies the philosophy he urged his fans to follow. 

Simmons wrote before concluding, "Live today and don’t forget to pray."

The fitness teacher who has coached several students, took a step away from the spotlight in 2014 and ever since has been using his social media accounts to connect with his fans.

Internet reacts after Richard Simmons' clarification

Following Richard Simmons' clarification on social media, his fans flocked to X (formerly Twitter) to share their collective relief.

One of the fans declared, "We are just happy to hear from you. 💙."

Another fan added, "I think the bit where you said “I am ….dying” had some people concerned that you were ….dying. I’m super glad that you’ve clarified. Imma try the toe-flex thing before bed tonight regardless."

"You are a gift and a treasure and a beautiful person above all that. Thank you for all you are and do!" commented someone else with a sigh of relief.

Another social media user who claimed to have understood said, "That is what I thought you meant!!! I just said that to someone else I think you were just making a profound message. It was a good one. No worries all you did was make everyone care about you and get a ton of people to follow you. You're a light and deserve it," added another fan.

Someone else said similarly, "Oh, I definitely caught your message. If someone didn't follow the thread, it's clear they might get the wrong idea. And who doesn't have a case of the Mondays? I know the feeling all too well—dragging myself out of bed, stress kicking in right away. But your message lifted my spirits and had me doing a little dance while waiting for my coffee. Love you 🥰 Richard!"

Another fan sent a short and simple message appreciating his profound philosophy, "The message was great and thank you."

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