Richard Simmons' Final Years: Mystery Solved?

Richard Simmons, a celebrated American fitness icon, vanished from public view in 2014, prompting widespread concern and speculation. Friends and journalists struggled to contact the TV personality, leading to rumors of him being held against his will, which he later denied. His reclusive years were marked by a mysterious hospitalization and the closure of his Beverly Hills exercise studio.

Simmons passed away in 2026, with the Los Angeles Coroner's office citing "complications from recent falls and heart diseases." This new ABC special, "The Mystery of Richard Simmons: A Diane Sawyer Special," aims to unravel the truth behind his disappearance and death. It promises a portrait of the star, exploring his retreat into seclusion.

The hour-long broadcast features archival footage and interviews with Simmons' inner circle, including his older brother, who granted Sawyer access to Simmons' home. This intimate exploration seeks to shed light on the life, legacy, and enduring intrigue of the American superstar, whose story took a surprising turn as he was reportedly planning a comeback.

Viewers can watch "The Mystery of Richard Simmons: A Diane Sawyer Special" on ABC or livestream it. The special offers a deep dive into the enigmatic final years of a beloved figure who built an enduring fitness empire over three decades.