Agree. I’m the same way. I’m an introvert, I believe. Only child. Lost my dad when I was only 16 yrs old (heart disease). Cried alone.....for my dad...and for my mom who fell apart after my dad passed. Single parent. Worked at a chaotic job while raising my girls. Fostered and rescued several non humans. Never remarried. Dated...but was diagnosed with fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue in my 30’s. No energy for drama. Kept working. And then helped raise all 5 of my grandkids. Youngest daughter married young and had 5 children within 14/15 yrs. She was great mom...loved non humans, like I do. Worked as a vet tech for many years. She passed when she turned 37 yrs old...suddenly...no warning, just like my dad. Grandkids all grown up. Doing ok. My older daughter busy working ...struggling to pay bills (as we all are). She’s my best friend. I’m 74 yrs old...no longer work..and live alone. With 2 stray cats I took in. Also have been caring for 13 feral cats (all tnrd) for 10 yrs. They’ve all come to trust me. Even the opossums, raccoons and squirrels. I have lived a tough life...but I’ve observed, I’ve learned, I’ve cared, I’ve changed (still changing) and I’m still here...evolving. I am not as strong, not as financially well off, and I’m tired.....but I’m never lonely. I love my solitude. Noise, crowds, bright lights....not my thing anymore. I don’t think it ever was my thing. But...when raising children (who are involved in sports games)...working a hectic full time job (having to interact and socialize a bit with co workers)....talking to hundreds of customers around the world....I had to sort of pretend to be extroverted. Now...I’m really who I am. Just an empathetic, kind, loving, introvert...who hasn’t lost my sense of humor....thankfully. I’m more content, aware of my thoughts, perceptions, feelings, opinions, etc... arising and passing. Still love nature. But solitude is so very peaceful, in my opinion. Not sure how much time I have left...but , emotionally, I’m doing pretty well. Physically too..tho I’m a tiny woman. Hard to lift things around here. Or sometimes, even do yard work. Financially, I’m eking by. I helped way too many beings (both human and non human)....still doing so. If Richard wants to be alone....it’s no one’s business. We all are visiting here...at this particular time...on this particular planet. To love, to be kind...to help those we can help...that’s what really matters. Just my take. 💕

I totally agree! Let’s all just let the man enjoy his peace and solitude.

@@sandella11 ❤️🙏

@@sandella11 💕🐾💕🐾💕🐾Omgosh you are a remarkable person and such an inspirational may God Bless you always and all your fur babies. 💕🐾💕🐾❤️

@@sandella11 I admire you very much. Thank you for sharing your story.

haha. That’s cool. I’m going to see if there is a clip of this on KZfaq. I see there are a few with Simmons.

haha. I found the clip! You did a great job!! What. Cool story. I was 10! 😎

Aaaaaand...in 87 THAT was serious bank! He did you a definite solid! A lot of celebrities forget how much money like that means to real people, he didn't. Nice story and I am glad for you and it's nice to hear a story like this about a celebrity.

What a fun memory. Thank you for sharing!

Congratulations, that is such an awesome experience you had, thank you so much for sharing and I'm so glad you enjoyed it! I pray that Mr Simmons is living in peace and love, you as well!!! 💜✝️🌹✝️💜

Good to read something positive here on youtube.

At least you can buy another copy

Wow!

Nana Jan, what a great story and innovative of you to think of tying some string on the drink and lowering down... showing him kindness.. what a lovely memory! .I have such good memories of him, .i was in S Africa when aerobics hit in the late '70s early '80's, I am 60, would love to have him as a friend..

How sweet of a gesture on your behalf. Cool story.

Such a heart warming story. Thank goodness for people with a thoughtful and kind heart like yours. I bet he never forgot that.

I like that he was real and kind but it's kinda sad that the crew didn't have a water cooler. I would have done exactly what you did!!Thanks for sharing this story.

Never much cared for his show, but that was really nice of you to be nice to him. He always seemed to be a friendly fella, just not able to sit still much.

Absolutely!!! If I were painting a mural of faces that define the 80’s, Richard would be in it!!!!!❤️

@@mikehuff9793 what an accomplishment in its own right. Imagine.

Great tagline!!

@@sharksport01 I said he was the Mr. Rogers of physical fitness, not the definition of physical fitness.

well said

What an incredible story. Good for Richard to put your dad in his place. That just showed how much he cared.

Wow!

Ditto. Wow. What a strong will and gift to your family. Thank you for sharing. 🙏 Gratefully, Dennis

I was waking down the sidewalk near the Museum of Science in Boston in the 90s and Richard Simmons and a huge bodyguard came walking past me the other way. He was wearing his shorts and sneakers and stuff. I was was actually shocked and a little star struck because that was the last thing in the world I was expecting! I saw later the news said he was in town. Oh boy!🤣

Thank you for posting your recollections of him. I have the greatest respect for him, he got people moving and did not shame them. It would be nice if he were to post a video letting his fans that he's ok, just retiring to peace and quiet💖

I am a little jelly but very happy you got that experience and memory with him. What a beautiful story

As all of us. It's so sad almost nobody put themselves in his shoes

He's utterly repulsive.

THE HABS!

Well said. I totally agree.

@@Frauditor420 then why are you here?

I think he is wonderful 2

Love him for that!

Awe man, so rough. 😢

I agree. I also remember him being constantly mocked and made fun of on national TV. He was made to be the laughingstock of the entertainment world to the snob clique of Hollywood. I think being the object of constant jokes eventually took its toll on him and robbed him of his confidence and self-worth. Richard Simmons is a good man and I truly hope he finds the love he deserves in genuine friends and a healthy and loving romantic relationship.

Same. He was/is a great guy.

I met him. He was very sweet.

👍❤️

Rich Simmons here: Thanks, yes I am fine just leave me alone.

You claim to be straight, but from your username, I *surmise* that you're into cattle. Now, that's been established... Are into *heifers* or *bulls* ??? 🐂🐮🐮🐮🐂

Ditto to everything you just said!! (Except I did get a little fat after menopause. But thankfully lost it) Also, for the record- I happened to have loved the "Sweating to the Oldies" videos. (don't make fun of me Dr. Grande! lol) I danced to them with my children (especially during winter months) all through the 90's. Bless you Mr. Simmons ❤

Well said. I think we all just grew up knowing who he was and just liked his energy in general.

Beautiful comment...

Every time I saw Richard in an interview or on Good Morning America I always smiled. He had this air about him that we were all equal and never talked down to people.

agree

The problem. was the caring truthful? Obviously, it really wasn't though because he couldn't be truthful to people. People understand retirement. People also understand when you've just had enough and need to stop too. Of course, Richard has the right to retire just like anyone else, but going from one extreme to another shocks people. If only he could have been truthful to all those who cared for him as well and say to them, " I've had fun, it's been an awesome ride, but I'm ready to retire." Rather than just walking away and leaving people to worry about him. I think that's a very dishonest and uncaring way to go.

I can attest to that via past acquaintance of mine who helped her. He helped a lot a people turn their lives around..

@@TracyR4he’s given more than enough. He is truthful. He wants to be left alone. He doesn’t owe you a personal apology, sweetheart.

@@TracyR4Have you ever heard the word depressed, pretty over used word theses days that seems to be missing from these comments when it probably should be here, seems he was having physical problems, pain, which leads to exhaustion, and many to depression and can then lead to a lead to even more physical and emotional depletion, he didn’t just decide I’m done, he probably couldn’t function much at all for some time

I met him with my family at the airport. He was really very sweet and kind to my children, who he made laugh, teenage at the time, they walked away with a great memory.❤️

@@fuzzyfriendsrescuevoluntee3036 You're absolutely right! No human being can possibly keep up the frantic pace that he did, as they age. I hope he is finding comfort and peace.

It’s nice to hear that.

Appreciate your insight and support of a human that helped millions of people and could still connect with anyone anytime. Well said. 🙏

He's still alive

Aww, that's a funny comparison! Like it. To kitties or dogs, a bathroom is just another space, no big deal.

@@bluecollarlit No boundaries. None, lol.

he had a lot of stress and rumours, lawsuits, yes he got stressed out and he is doing fine, good for him. sounds like a cool guy

@@girlwheels 🤣

I like cats following me.

Thank you for sharing your story, Kay!

What a lovely tribute to a lovely man.

Thanks Kay, love him too

Ooooh, that still sounds fun! Who doesn't love oldies?

That’s I wonderful tribute to that good man; I hope he reads it(-:

I totally agree.

Right on!

That is so cool! I also think he was a genuinely caring person. I grew up in a very hostile, abusive house and I loved watching Simmons on the late night shows and commercials and appearances. 😂 My parents would say a lot of nasty remarks (mainly about their perception of his sexuality) but he was the nicest, happiest person I had ever seen. He even cried whenever he wanted to like it was totally ok. Weird memory 😂

What a great story! And to read about how many people he’s reached out to over the years is amazing - he was indeed genuine. He was also funny and a bright light that he shared generously.

I agree. Sometimes it has to be all or nothing. I worked as a mental health worker for long hours 7 days a week for decades. I gave every client my full attention, I treated everyone with respect and felt respected. I loved my job. The Covid response quickly brought about dislike of my coworkers and my employer and within a short time I couldn't stand going to work. I was gone before anyone had a chance to say goodbye and I will never go back.

Ive been a fitness instructor for 23 years & know that feeling all too well. I take breaks periodically & cut back when I feel the burnout. Im at that point right now in fact 😂

I was about to say the same thing regarding the deep sadness. It comes through in the photos. Poor chap.

Very true, sounds like he did exactly what he needed to do for his own self preservation. After giving so much for so long, who could fault him for that?

@@Irisgomesjmjfaith yes it really does come through in photos and in person. Pretty sure he struggled most of his lifetime with something. 🥲

Yes you could see it was weighing in him. I’m so glad he stopped when he did though so he has some time to enjoy his peace

@@comom2055 you will never find another, Richard….in his tutu and screaming every profanity at his class to amuse, yet inspire. He really meant so very well. We all have our demons, especially from childhood, and he was no different. I loved his classes, all sweaty and aching from his workout and then we would all sit down and he would discuss an inspirational topic to open our hearts and minds to good things…..until next class. I wish him well always!

I'm pretty sure that he was. People who had lonely childhoods grow up to be kind souls.

Lord Jesus blesd you greatly!❤

Truly!

Absolutely! And they have the right to do it their own way. Once it was established that he was at is home and very much alive, everybody should have just left him alone.

Agree.

several DG comments were not kind

@@lynb2039 i personally didn't see those comments as unkind, but the truth, the facts, and presented in a detached way, unjudging like he should be doing. Richard was seen by many as a savant to the diets they kept failing at, I never saw that myself in Richard, if anything he kinda came off as a charlatan of sorts and his persona a tad fake if you ask me and find that to be part of his downfall.

Or just wanted to make lots of money.

@@nonrepublicrat He deserved it he made MILLIONS of unhappy overweight women HAPPY about themselves - NO PILL or MAN has done that not even husbands - & you can’t bottle that kind of Happiness 😃 Deserved every Penny

@@nonrepublicrat & The Dork Dr. isn’t here to profit - the hypocrisy is insane HES Just a therapist Not real Psychiatrist

YES!

@@nonrepublicrat if you do what you're passionate about and what you're good at, chances are you're going to be successful at it. Most people want to make a lot of money. Problem is most people are too scared to do it their own way and do what's prescribed by society to meet that end. And often these people find that their path is not a good fit.

You can take the bag outta the dirt, but you can't take the dirt outta the bag! LOL 😄

I worked with a lady years ago that was like your relative. Her hobby was writing to companies and celebrities to see what free sh*t she could get outta them. Then she’d sell the stuff at the local flea market and brag how much money she made. I have no idea what stories she made up but I mentioned to her that when they sent her free stuff she was stealing it from a truly needy person. She shrugged 😡

Thank you for sharing your story! ❤️

@@axlenuts5418 No pictures. RIchard Simmons was a student in the art dept at FSU during the same time I was. He was known as Dickie Simmons back then. Like I said, we only had one class together, but I remember him well. He was someone you never forgot.

@@gulfgal98 I don't require pics, thanks for sharing.

But Linda dearest, everyone aleady knows that Jane Fonda was genuinely a fake and a phony.

Very true x

I didnt think he looked odd. Actually never crossed my mind until normal census citizens or youtube.responders.. also known as fans say something or point it out. I dont need to be hateful I just say bless your heart when you sneeze

It was always amazing to see him reach out and hug people and look them in the eye and talk to them with encouragement. These were the people who were extremely overweight, and we all know how the rest of society treats them -- with disgust and eye-rolls and cat-calls. I can only imagine how much they valued him. He truly showed love to all.

@Linda Ross Interesting how you speak of him like he passed away. I personally think he chose to retire because he really wasn’t comfortable coming out of the closet…and perhaps felt embarrassed when he finally realized how hard he flamed in those short shorts and shaved legs. He was very quick to cry..I think the poor guy was honestly an emotional wreck

I used to work as an optician as well, and as an introvert I ran into the same issues as you! I loved getting to help people see, but it was so exhausting dealing with people all day.

God bless you! 💜✝️🙏 You are worth your weight in GOLD!!!

That's really good to hear.

Yes

Awesome

I should mention the gallery was in New Orleans… the French Quarter, and I promise you Richard is here a lot, and he is perfectly fine.

@@LS-ny8mr I'm so happy to hear that!

I agree, I remember standing in front of our T.V. and doing the exercises with him and then cry with him when he speaks to someone struggling with their weight. I think he was genuine and just burned out. I burned out from my job too, I was a career for many different people and one day I just couldn't do it anymore, I had nothing left.

Do anything you can for self care and respite. Will pray for you.

@@whaaat3632 Thank you so much, Sweetheart. That really touched my heart. Bless you, my friend. ❤

As one who was a caregiver for 10 years, I understand where you're coming from. I also understand how hard it is to take care of your own needs and have time for yourself. Most of the time you're all there is and it is too expensive to hire people. I hope you are doing well and do have some help.

@@judybryant3880 bless your heart, honey. I take care of a disabled vet for about the last 15yrs, a Parkinson’s/Dementia person for 3yrs, and I had a cancer survivor for 3yrs. I love doing it. I love and care about people a lot! But yes, I’ve been neglecting my own needs too much lately. My back s absolutely killing me, I don’t get a lot of sleep, and the mental and spiritual is so seriously draining beyond imagination.. but as I said, I won’t walk away because 2 of these people are a spouse, and a best friend. I have a very good life with every possible luxury, and no drama, fighting, or financial issues, so I’m beyond happy! I just need a break soooooo bad sometimes. Thank you so much for your response right now. I’m in my bed icing my back and trying to unwind, but I was feeling really emotional and sort of delirious, and then I saw what you said, and I feel better now! Kindness is such an underrated thing.

Agh!!! I was just going to comment that the world could more Richard Simmons and Mr. Rodgers. In a world of so much division they brought unity in their kindness.

My sister had Sweatin' to the Oldies and Deal a Meal. As a little kid I loved him, he was big in our household even though only my sis was overweight. We enjoyed seeing him on talk shows ect. He was so upbeat, I hope he's ok.

He fell into a deep depression and I think he's always struggled with it. The extrovert personality he portays is what he does to counteract how sad he feels inside. Most comedians say they hate themselves and want people to like them. At some point they found out its really hard for people to not like you when they're laughing.

Thanks for sharing. Enjoy your art!

God Bless 🙏🏻

@@alice_rabbit8345 Thank you. I do, very much so:-)

Real people understand this. Sometimes they have an epiphany in life and totally change their careers.

@@drdr76 I never considered it a career I just sort of fell into it. Sales was foreign to my psyche. I don't enjoy trying to sell things to people but I'm very inspired by beauty and what is visual such as decorating, painting, the culinary arts, etc., and yes, it was an epiphany, I knew in an instant I wanted out. So when Simmons failed to show up I understood. Sometimes a person reaches a breaking point, a point of no return, where it's like 'I can't take one more second of this.'

He totally made fun of him. He should be ashamed of himself.

@@moomama217 Americans especially you people that are ardently defending capitalism really take yourself too damn seriously If he made fun of him he's sitting comfortably at home with a lot of money and he doesn't care if he made fun of capitalism then the doctor here finally did something right his video about Putin was complete bullshit

I was very glad about that too. I honestly thought he would mock him because sometimes he makes jokes in these videos that I find inappropriate so I don't think anyone else does. I just don't like making jokes about people that have been murdered or people who have struggled with a lot of issues.

You’re right but I think for the most part people’s concern is out love and caring for his well-being rather than malice. I wish him a peaceful and enjoyable life. He brought much needed kindness to a world that is always in need of it💕

Exactly

Bless his heart

Yes. Bless him. He is a good man.

Yes he is

Arnold always looked gross to me. Too beefy and unnatural. Like he walked out of the cold storage. I've seen many 'fat' people who looked way more aesthetically pleasing.

Richard taught many of us, even us dreadfully skinny folk, to love themselves ❤️

❤️

Brenda, I hope you find your place outside of your caring role! Remember to offer yourself the same generosity and compassion you have given to others. Despite the difficulties of being a career, I know the struggles of feeling cast adrift when you are released from that role by the loss of a loved one. You should never feel guilty for enjoying the relative freedom of now being able to put yourself first. You don’t need to justify your existence by being useful or hard-working. It may have been so long since you could just do stuff without a lot of planning that you can’t remember how, but I hope life brings you wonderful things - and I hope your memories of your mom and sister bring you some smiles to lighten your grief. ❤️

As a fellow introvert, I too cherish my alone time. Great comment!

Introverts unite 🙌

It’s weird when you’re an introvert but even that personality test (Meyers Briggs I think) thinks you’re an extrovert cause they ask the wrong questions. It would have definitely pegged Richard Simmons as an extrovert.

Even Jesus Christ had to get away from the crowds to refresh himself with the Father.

@@dontmindme633 I'm an extroverted introvert, if that can be understood.

Yeah he was genuine. I liked him. He did a lot for people in private.

He waved at our Hollywood tours bus years ago. He was just getting the mail.

I hope someone does his bio. It seems he did his best to spread joy.

Too flaming? Lol. Wow!!!

@@ICONICPARIS to be

Well said j.

If you truly want to show respect to him, realize that your reductive comments about him being “too flaming” illustrate your supreme ignorance in the arena of how to show your fellow humans respect and the amount of self reflection you must embark on in order to be considered relevant. Be better. Just like Richard Simmons inspired us to be. He urged us to love ourselves, in all of our forms of being. I deem you to be “too ignorant “ after reading your drivel. You think he needs your sympathy? Haha “think” again. We can only dream of impacting our fellow humans so positively, and at the sheer magnitude that Simmons has. If he did not perform masculinity the way you think he should have, who cares? The measure of a human is the positive impact left behind with every interaction and action. I’m betting he sleeps very well at night knowing he was the very best at his craft of teaching self love , and unequivocally… had the best legs ever to wear shorts.

@@oregonsnob31 chillax he meant flamboyant. Geese Magilicuty chill

@Betterbee Right .Cool to hear the skilled Dr Grande do analysis [not diagnosis]. Hoping your crisis call played out positively

So do I ❤️ he makes it so fun.

I helped run the lights at a country western show in about 1975. It was the Lyle Waggoner Country Western Show. Lyle had a smoking hot side kick named Dolly Pardon. As you describe it she exuded an almost an electric charisma. I didn't know who she was but I would have listened to her all night long. Been a fan ever since. Richard Simmons is the same. I've been told by people that met Arnold Schwarzenegger that he exudes a similar charisma field.

@@lockman004 : Yeah, Richard and Arnold have a lot in common…

It is called star quality. Those who have are lightning!

@@lockman004 I believe you meant Porter Waggoner.

You had a inner ear orgasm. Very rare indeed.

Well said.

He flashed in my mind the other couple days ago..Maybe he doesn't want to be found

A documentary about him was recently released on hulu so that is why you are suddenly seeing things about him.

Yes, I was just talking about him the other day, amazing synchronicity

Me too. I don’t need the company of others. I’m happy with just me most of the time. People make me tired.

@@martyal I feel like extroverted people see Introversion as a character flaw sometimes. I love my 'me' time

Fantastic comment! God bless you! ✝️💜🌹

Me, too.

Empathy means being able to feel & understand another's persons issue or situation from their point of view: putting yourself in their position & seeing it through their eyes. You don't have to have experienced the same issue to empathise.

@@tribbles2955 I’d go with the actual Dr. over than random commenter 😉. IMV Empathy is genuinely being able to mirror the feelings of a person…. Sympathy is choosing/trying to empathize

Me too! I loved Sweating to the Oldies!

A bunch of lame democrats lol

@@donpeace894 👍

@@donpeace894 I do believe you missed the point of the comment. But while we’re on the subject, all politicians suck 🙄 on both sides. Picking a team is just a means to divide..

@@ImSimplyAHuman trump desantis 2024 - they don't come more stupid or crooked than Biden

I bet Meyers Briggs pegs you as an extrovert though. Cause they ask the wrong questions. Like how you are around people. Like introverts are all socially awkward or shy.