Fitness Icon Richard Simmons Found Dead Day After 76th Birthday – And 4 Months After Skin Cancer Fight

Simmons became a household name through his enthusiastic workout programs and positive attitude toward health.

On Friday, July 12, he took to Facebook to share a message of gratitude toward his supporters and to motivate them to live their best lives. In the post, he expressed his happiness at being alive, showing a glimpse of his iconic enthusiasm even in the face of health challenges.

"Thank you ... I never got so many messages about my birthday in my life," Simmons wrote. "I am sitting here writing emails. Have a most beautiful rest of your Friday!"

During a recent interview, ahead of his birthday, Simmons said, "I am grateful that I'm here, that I am alive for another day."

Simmons' decision to step back from the public eye in 2014 surprised many of his fans and followers. However, he remained active on social media, occasionally sharing updates about his health and well-being.

Later in the interview, he provided insight into his personal struggles with cancer but also served as a beacon of hope and inspiration for those who followed his fitness journey.

"Please don't be sad. I am... dying. Oh, I can see your faces now," Simmons shared. "The truth is we are all dying. Every day we live we are getting closer to our death."

"Why am I telling you this? Because I want you to enjoy your life and to the fullest every single day," he continued. "Get up in the morning and look at the sky... count your blessings and enjoy."