Richard Simmons A Recluse? Fans, Friends Worry Despite Rep’s Statement

Many Richard Simmons fans are feeling quite worried about the fitness guru. He hasn’t been seen out and about in months now and some reports indicate he’s become a shut-in. His rep has downplayed the buzz and rumors, but other sources indicate that friends of the star are quite worried.

As the Daily News shares, Richard Simmons’ rep says that the star is not a shut-in or clinically depressed. Though Simmons has not been seen in some time now, his rep, Thomas Estey, says that’s because when he goes out he wears a disguise. Some fans find this hard to believe, given the fitness guru’s exuberant personality and love for his fans.

According to sources for TMZ, fans may have plenty of reason to worry. They report that Simmons is indeed in bad shape, and that his closest friends have not had contact with him since March 10. Friends report that Simmons had been very close to Joan Rivers and would not have missed her funeral if he was doing okay. In addition, it seems the mother of a very close friend died not long ago, and Simmons never got in touch with the friend.

Simmons still has an exercise studio, and in the past, he was frequently seen there. Now, however, it seems he hasn’t been there in months, and those there don’t know why. Over the years, Simmons has always been one to embrace his fans and relish in the attention his style brings out, so hearing that he has seemingly pulled away from his studio and his close friends leaves many feeling quite concerned.

TMZ reports that Simmons is in the midst of a serious depression sparked both by his dog dying some time back, and a knee replacement surgery he’s struggling to face. That said, the close friends indicate that they think there must be more going on that has led to Richard secluding himself. One friend said that if he was okay, and he knew people were worried about him, he would reach out to them, yet he hasn’t.

Simmons’ rep says, “The truth is very simple, he has a knee injury, and it’s serious enough to keep him from doing what he loves most: exercising and motivating others.”

The rep adds that while Richard does need surgery, he’s been hesitant to get it down because he had the same surgery on the other knee some time back and it was very difficult for him. Estey also says that the fitness guru will be “back and better than ever, when he’s ready.”

All of the buzz and concern has sparked a new post on Richard Simmons’ Facebook page. The post shares that he is touched by the concern and love he’s received, and he’s had a tough time dealing with the injury. Fans are definitely still anxious to support their beloved exercise guru, as the post quickly garnered nearly 15,000 “likes” and more than 3,500 comments.

Is Richard Simmons fine, or is there reason for fans and friends to be concerned? Nobody knows quite what to think right now, but they hope he gets stronger and back to feeling himself in no time.

[Image via JRN]