Richard Simmons is alive, and there is no need for panic. The recent announcement of a biopic about the fitness star’s life, with Pauly Shore cast as Simmons, triggered concerns and searches about his well-being. Given the usual timing of biographical films being released posthumously, many fans feared the worst and thought it was confirmation of Simmons’ death.

However, Richard Simmons is still very much alive. The panic surrounding the biopic announcement is understandable, as such films are typically released after a person has passed away. Simmons, at 75 years old, is likely in good health, having built his career around promoting self-love, fitness, and positivity. His focus on health and happiness has been a constant throughout his life, and he has maintained a positive and cheerful attitude into his 70s.

The upcoming biopic, produced by Warner Bros. subsidiary the Wolper Organization, will celebrate Simmons’ contributions to the fitness and media world. Although he stepped away from the spotlight in 2014, there is no indication that Simmons is in poor health. The biopic provides an opportunity to celebrate his legacy while he is still alive, offering a creative reflection on the work that made him a pop culture icon during the ’80s, ’90s, and 2000s.

TOPICS: Richard Simmons