'One of a Kind': Ricki Lake, Pauly Shore and More Stars Mourn 'Special' Richard Simmons After His Death

Richard Simmons is being remembered by various celebrities after his death

Published Time: 14.07.2024 - 05:31:04 Modified Time: 14.07.2024 - 05:31:04

Richard Simmons is being remembered by various celebrities after his death.

The fitness guru died one day after celebrating his 76th birthday, his longtime publicist, Tom Estey, confirmed to PEOPLE on Saturday, July 13. "The world has truly lost an angel," he said of Simmons.

Simmons died at his Los Angeles home, according to TMZ, who said no foul play was suspected. The outlet added that authorities responded to a call from a housekeeper at around 10 a.m. local time.

In a series of posts shared across social media, many paid tribute to Simmons, remembering him for his larger-than-life personality.

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"My heart is broken with the loss of this super special human," Ricki Lake wrote in a tribute shared on X, formerly Twitter. "May he RIP. #richardsimmons I loved him so so much."

Alongside her post, the actress included a throwback photograph of herself, Simmons and Maria Menounos posing together.

In another tribute on X, Whose Line Is It Anyway's Greg Proops remembered the star, who appeared on the show in June 2003.

"Richard Simmons was a lovely man. Gracious and funny. Likely our most popular guest," he wrote.

Pauly Shore also remembered the late star with his own social -

media post, writing, "I just got word like everyone else that the beautiful Richard Simmons has passed," alongside a photograph of the star.

"I hope you’re at peace and twinkling up in the heavens. Please give my mother Mitzi and my father Sammy a big hug and a kiss for me," he added. "You’re one of a kind, Richard. An amazing life. An amazing story. They broke the dolphin shorts when they made you. Rest in peace, my friend. Rest in peace."

Gloria Gaynor, for her part, began her own post: "Thinking of the family and loved ones of Richard Simmons.

"He brought so much joy, happiness and life changing moments to so many through his unstoppable drive to make a positive difference in people’s lives," she continued.

In a statement given to PEOPLE, Lenny Simmons also remembered his brother after his death.

"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 said. "He truly cared about people. He called, wrote, and ed thousands of people throughout his career to offer help."

"So don’t be sad. Celebrate his life. He was very excited about all of his upcoming ventures he was working on," the Simmons sibling continued.

He added: "We are in shock. Please respect the family at this difficult time."

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