My grandmother was a Richard Simmons fan and had all the tapes. After she passed in 2004 I emailed Richard Simmons to tell him how big of a fan my grandmother was and to thank him for what he did. He emailed me back within 24 hours with the most heartfelt response. He is a good human being. Hope this will be made into a legit movie.

Richard Simmons just died. I hope Pauly can do him justice in making a great film.

Sad to hear he(Richard*) passed today, I still feel this was an incredibly accurate tribute to Richard Simmons.

*This short film portrays what a beautiful soul he had. He genuinely cared about people and wanted to help. God Speed, Richard*

Wholesome. This was a fantastic short that needs to be made into a full length movie. Pauly Shore is one of a kind. Great portrayal.

If Richard was worried about this, he shouldn't be. It's a love letter and a tribute to this man. Bravo.

My opinion of Richard Simmons forever changed the day I saw him on Whos line is it anyway. He literally broke 5 professional comedians, an entire studio, and left like nothing happened. A super underrated comedian and entertainer. Hope he's doing well.

Im a 32 year old 6'2" 244lb Army Combat Veteran, and i have a lot of respect for anyone who can turn back, reach down into the pit they just crawled out of and pull someone else up. I salute you, Richard Simmons.

Richard Simmons is a national treasure. He was never problematic and always exuded joy and love even though he was always made fun of and mocked.

I have my own story of Richard. My mom and I went on a cruise to lose with him. He was wonderful. He even took my mom aside and they talked for the longest time. He treated her like they were the only ones on the ship. She shared that my dad was quadriplegic. He took her and I to his cabin that night and called my dad at home to let him know that he was taking care of his wife and daughter and not to worry. He called me on stage to exercise with him the next day. We had such a blast. We will always cherish those memories and I hope he is happy. He is very missed because the world really needs him at this time. Love you Richard!!

Who else os here because you just learned he passed away? He was a fun man! RIP Brotha

The only making fun here is of his wholesome flamboyance. But its not embarrassing or cringy, it's genuine human niceness. It makes you laugh and cry. It's beautiful.

I understand Richard wants a private life now. He’s entitled to that. But I hope this short brings an even wider audience to Richard. A tribute to a life time of helping people in need. More people should show him appreciation for all he’s done. He truly inspired millions.

I worked at KTLA studios, during a time when Richard Simmons was there working. We became temporary friends, just by seeing each other around the lot, morning and night, while he worked there. I was a lowly lot-labor worker at the time and this is exactly how Richard was to me as well. He always said "HI JEROME", sometimes from 50 yards or more away. He always gave compliments, was full of energy and was never, ever negative. Truly a very good person.

It is with a heavy heart to hear the passing of Richard Simmons, a beloved fitness icon and television personality. His passing leaves a tremendous void in the lives of those who knew and loved him. Richard Simmons will always be remembered for his infectious energy, unwavering enthusiasm, and tireless dedication to promoting fitness and self-love.

It's amazing to scroll through the comments and not see anyone saying a single bad thing about him. RIP

Jesus Christ, he killed it. What alternate universe am I living in when I am 42 and crying at Pauly Shore playing Richard Simmons.

He’s quoted as saying, “When the king gets depressed, he doesn't call for his wife or the cook. He turns to the little man with the pointed hat and says to the court jester "make me laugh". And I am that court jester”.

Such horrible news. Rest in peace, Richard. You will remain a hero, your workout tapes will live forever and continue to help those who need it most ❤

Who else look's like Richard, acts like Richard, and is silly like Richard? Pauly (friggin)Shore, that's who!! He's not trying to make fun of him, he's showing his silly side 💕

Pauly Shore is clearly coming at this from a place of love and utmost respect. I hope Richard Simmons knows exactly how much he is beloved by us all. Bravo

Jesse Heiman was perfect as David. Jesse is a professional background actor with over 100 credits to his name. Good job, Mr Heiman.

😔 rip Richard one of the strongest men ever made

Did Pauly Shore just make me cry?! Wow.... this was moving!

I spent a day as Richard's "handler" when he appeared at a Walmart sales conference. Several women buttonholed him while we were making the rounds, and he stopped for every one of them, attentively listening to their stories and giving them encouragement. I looked in his eyes. He's the real deal.

I had the honor of meeting Richard Simmons, I think it was 2010 at his house I was a contractor cleaning his carpets, and I can honestly say he was the nicest human I have ever met in my life.

Reading these personal stories about Richard Simmons is amazing.

I just found out that Richard Simmons died and had to come here to watch this again ❤

I chuckled as soon as he pranced onstage but the fact that Pauly Shore just moved me to a full emotional level of yearning in this short performance is just fucking incredible. In just 9 minutes, the Dood blurs the line between comical and kindhearted. THIS MOVIE NEEDS TO BE MADE.

Richard, c’mon dude, Pauly will do you justice in a full length film. You’re both loved and National treasures

I hope that Mr. Simmons reads all these beautiful comments and memories of him and sees how much he truly touched people's hearts and changed so many lives. When my parents were divorced and I had to go visit my dad, I was left alone to watch TV or play Atari (ya, a while ago), I remember Richard Simmons workout show being on, and there I was, sweating with him and all the adults. I loved his positivity and have always been a fan. Much love to him. ❤❤❤

Richard Simmons was my childhood hero. I was a child when he talked about his childhood. He really helped me with the lessons he gave me. I hold on. He will be forever missed forever loved.

I had the pleasure of attending classes at Slimmons, Richard's studio, thirty years ago. I was 480 pounds back then...I'm half that now. This short does the man's kindness justice.

We need more “Richard Simmons” in the world. Now more than ever.

Rest in peace Richard Simmons. The real MVP when it came to fitness & health.

I ran into Richard Simmons on a cruise ship while boarding. He actually pulled me aside and we had a nice conversation. He was a sweet and genuine person. He even gave me an unexpected hug.

How can you not adore a person who displays their joy by dancing and singing like no one is watching, while literally everyone is watching. Well done!

Amazing how you fit such a wholesome story within 10 minutes. I hope you get your movie, Pauly.

RIP Richard. We love you and will miss you 😢

My thoughts are: We NEED Richard Simmons… A BRIGHT LIGHT we are ALL NEEDING and MISS! We LOVE AND MISS YOU RICHARD! You made us HAPPY!!!! ❤

I have watched this twice in the last two days and cried happy tears both times. The filmmakers are on to something. Richard, please consider endorsing this. I think there’s a lot of people who need it and you.

I used to work out in person with Richard Simmons at his studio, called Slimmons Studio. It was some of the most fun times of my life! Richard would show up to exercise class in drag. Over the loud music he would yell out which moves we should do next, while he pulled off his fake fingernails and flung them at us, or pulled off his wig and threw it across the room. HILARIOUS!!! I even have a picture of him sitting on my Harley Davidson in DRAG! And I’ll never forget the time when I brought my friends to his birthday party workout, where we all dressed up in costumes as cute animals. Or the time when he made my friend take off his shirt during class, so he could do push-ups over the top of him. I mean, we were literally cracking up! So much joy and fun! !!! I’ll never forget the first time I ever met Richard. He literally pinched my cheek and said, “You’re so cute, you’re so cute!” And I’ll never forget the time in class when I was having an anxiety attack because I was short of breath due to my asthma, and he literally took me outside and walked with me down the block, and said that when he has panic attacks he goes outside and listens to the birds. I miss the hell out of that guy. I’d give anything to see him again and give him another hug. I’m so grateful for the time I spent with him.

RIP Richard Simmons. You inspired so many others to realize just how important, cared for, and truly great they were. I personally saw how you inspired my own mother to get healthy and know she mattered. May your memory live on forever inspiring others. You will forever be loved.

I honestly think Pauly Shore is perfect for the role of Richard Simmons, I want a whole movie of this. We need Pauly back in movies more than ever.

After we pass, we're all a forgetten memory after a few generations go by. Richard should be honored that people care enough to make this.

Why did people think they were going to mock Richard Simmons? He's a kind and empathetic person who did a lot to help people. Just because so much of the world is mean spirited, doesn't mean that we all are. I was really overweight in high school and felt invisible and like I wanted to disappear. I still struggle with that feeling. I'm so grateful for the Richard Simmons of the world.

Rest in peace Richard. I hope Pauly can make this movie in the future. ❤

Richard cared for me more than any of my extended family, and I was a stranger. He had written letters to me after my brother died, and my father died in quick succession. I told him how life wasn't worth a new diet or health plan. I knew my mother was not going to make it long bc she lost my brother and my father. I couldn't see being on this planet once I'd lose her & I'd roll the dice on my health. He kindly and sweetly extended a lifeline, I am sure he saved me from a self-destruction that went beyond food. I understand why Richard retired to a quiet, peaceful life. He cared so much and knew he needed to care for himself even more as he retired. I hope what Pauly did puts a smile on his heart.

A Richard Simmons biopic can’t be filmed without Pauly playing Richard. The passion for this role and the love and respect he has for Richard are clearly visible. ❤

We are so lucky to have people in this world that can connect and bring such joy. Both Richard Simmons and Pauly Shore are two such people. Thank you for this little short!

This was actually pretty damn good.... Came here after I heard that sweet gentleman passed

Wow, I forgot how much power Richard Simmons had in the world saving people 1 person at a time. He made time for people, gave so much of himself. I hope he knows how much he is truly loved.

We don't give Richard Simmons NEARLY enough credit OR recognition for being just an incredible force of Good in this world. This definitely quelled any concerns I had about Pauly representing him. I hope Richard gives it a chance, because this was heartfelt and wonderful. And I gather Richard doesn't want the attention, he deserves space and peace for all he's given the rest of us, but maybe we could all use a little bit of this just to remind us of the things we still need to hear.

Richard just passed! God bless you Richard! You have helped millions of people!!

Its true, food never says no. Richard is a National Treasure, I hope he knows that. No one is making fun of him, we all love him and just want him to be at peace, and be happy.

Wow, just wow…. I’m a 50 year old former Marine who doesn’t go for these types of films, but Pauly’s performance just hit me hard. This was very good.

Not gonna lie. I went into this fully expecting something like an SNL skit and left wanting a whole movie. That was way better than I expected. If there's any role Pauly Shore was born to play it's this one.

He died today. I do not know too much about him. I guess after watching this. ❤ He was kind. And loving RIP Richard 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻💞💞💞💞🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻

Pauly pulled it off . Should be a full length feature

Both Pauley and Richard were both belittled and mocked...Redemption for two in one...Good always prevails 🙏❤️✌️

With the right writing, pauly shore, and more moments like these at 7:00 this will be a monster hit at the theater. Many people will relate to this. I got goosebumps "Like yourself" and "I know what it feels like to want to disappear"

There is no telling how many Richard helped with their self-esteem. Pauly Shore always brought a smile to my face!

Rest in Peace King Richard. You were a light in a very dark world. Donuts with sprinkles ...those calories don't count now...but the memories you made here on earth...always will!!! 🩵

Back in the day, I was a brat who thought Richard Simmons was a fruitcake, but I did recognize the good he was doing. Now I can fully appreciate how brave he was to be his true self, how selfless he was in helping others and that he was just an all around good person and pure soul. We need more fruitcakes like Richard in this world to remind us that life is short and we need to be our best selves, kind to each other and that laughter is better than crying. Richard, if you are reading this, you made the world a better place and I pray that you know just how special, loved and missed you are. You are beautiful. ❤

If Richard ever sees any of this, this was obviously made with a lot of love and respect. It reminds everyone that Richard Simmons looked at those that weren't looked at or ignored, and treated them with the love and respect they all deserved. This short film is better than expected and Pauly showed love and respect to Richard. Outstanding.

RIP Richard. May you finally find your own Court Jester...wherever you are in that beautiful blue sky.

Richard Simmons represented the quirky and odd parts of us that Mister Rogers couldn't reach.

I laughed when I heard they might make Richard Simmons life into a movie with Pauly Shore, then I watched this. I have a newfound respect for what Richard Simmons was trying to do all these years. He wasn't peddling workout tapes, he was helping people learn to love themselves. I always loved his appearances on David Letterman and Howard Stern. One thing is for sure, I always had a smile on my face whenever he was involved in a skit. I would love to watch this as a feature film. Thank you for all you have done, Mr. Simmons. May God bless you. Also great job Pauly!

That was unexpected! This is the most intelligent, mature thing I've ever seen Pauly do, and he killed it! He seemed to channel Richard's essence, in showing how, despite the extravagant presentations, Richard truly cared about connecting with people. This could do a lot of good for a lot of people if it were to become a full-length feature, so I hope that Richard watches it and approves.

Huh…Pauly Shore really nailed manifesting Richard Simmons the *proper way.* 100% wholesome human-kindness. It’s apparent this is going for something feature-length. Ship it.

He so deserves a full movie! He turned tragedy into triumph. We can all learn from this icon. Richard, we know where to find you! Thank you! ❤

It's so weird. I'm sitting at my desk, staring at my laptop, feeling sad about where I'm at in my life right now. I'm working hard in school, but I'm a little lonely and worried that my chosen career path might lead me down a dead end. I'm not physically, or mentally, at my best, and I can feel that every day when I get out of bed to get ready for class. So it's Saturday night, I'm alone in my room, and I go to KZfaq to find a distraction - anything to make me forget how lost I feel right now. I open the site, and the first thing I see is this video in my recommendations. I see Pauly Shore as Richard Simmons and I go, "Well, shit. I gotta watch that." I click on it, expecting something over the top and hilarious, but instead what I get is a very well crafted, beautifully written short film that is reflecting my own feelings (and the future I'm afraid of) back at me. And the grand message of this short? That all we need to do is make the choice to love ourselves, and the rest will fall into place. This was a message I desperately needed to hear, and I didn't even know it. Thank you for making this. Your art just really helped someone in need, and that definitely feels like the intention behind its creation. I appreciate all of you - the cast and the crew. 🩷

“I saw you trying really hard not to be noticed… I know what it’s like to want to disappear..” That kind of empathy and love is priceless man🙏

I'm watching this again for the umpteenth time. Pauly Shore defied anyone's expectations with this performance, as many comedians tend to do if performing something dramatic. He reallly knocked it out of the park, and I'm so happy to see him again. Richard Simmons will be dearly missed, even though he tried to escape from all of us prior to his passing. What an icon he was, and a legend he will always be.

Knowing Pauly Shore, I expected... well... you know. But THIS was INCREDIBLE. This is probably the most real range I've seen Pauly show off since My Name is Pauly Shore. I hope he makes his movie.

It made me cry. Richard - Please just let this happen - you are being honored not ridiculed in any way. You helped so many with your kindness and acceptance. We love you. Great job Pauly - Wheeeeesellllll

I love that Paula Shore isn’t doing this to make fun of him. It’s respectful and a beautiful portrayal

The world is in morning because it lost an Angel today a guiding light to si mqny of us. Rest in peace sweet prince.

Rest in peace Richard Simmons. Thank you for getting me to love myself during my journey.

This was incredible and so what people need to see and hear these days.

God bless Richard Simmons. Not only for food addicts, but for people struggling for low or no self-worth, Richard is a beautiful guiding light.

Wow, I'm blown away by Pauly Shores acting in this short, he's actually really good 👍!! I admit, I didn't think much of Pauly Shore back when he was popular in the 80's but WOW his acting has improved 👏 !! Hope he acts 🎬 more in the future 🙏.

I am amazed that I willingly watched something with Pauly short in it, watched it all the way to the end, and thoroughly enjoyed it. I really respect Pauly's acting ability here.

Pauly was made for this moment!!! This brought me to tears. I hope Richard knows that Pauly's going to make him RADIATE on screen, and spread his message of self love far and wide. This is amazing.

As someone who isn't feeling so great about themselves right now, I needed this.

Please Richard!! Please please give your blessing for Pauly to make this film. We need him. We need YOU. WE NEED EACHOTHER FOR THIS! PLEASE!!

Please let this film be made!!!

Alright. At first, I could see why Richard thought this was a parody, if he did. But, really, he is this empathetic and emotional with people. He can easily break down crying if he sees someone that reminds him of his younger self. Richard Simmons helped me lose weight and I'm a huge fan of his, I totally get what this is about. Richard, please come back to us in any way, shape, or form, sweetheart! Thank you Pauly Shore. Edit: And *yes*, Richard did swear! It's funny as Hell to hear! Look up Richard Simmon outtakes.

Even Richard Simmons expected Pauly Shore to go low, and he goes high. This is super sweet.

I’ve seen Pauly’s posts about this project for months…today I decided to check it out. Beautiful…just beautiful. Pauly brings the same vibes Richard did when I was growing up. I hope the entire thing gets published!!

Richard seemed like the one actual genuine person in this world. He will be missed.

Jesus christ, Pauly Shore still blows me away. This guy still has so much to offer comedy and Cinema and I think this piece is art is going to blow people away.

I did not come here thinking I would be tearing up. This was the greatest thing I’ve ever seen Paula Shore do.

In Memory I have watched this, was apprehensive about how he would be portrayed & absolutely loved it. He was unique, he was the epitome of effervescence. Pauly did a good job. I just wish the 'segment producer' gave him the dvd while they sat chatting. RIP Richard, you made many millions of people happy and fit.

I’ve been anxious to see Pauly’s portrayal. Yes, Richard was wary of it, Pauly spoke beautifully about his admiration of Richard and only wanted to pay him a proper tribute - holy $*#% he really did it! This was truly beautiful. As someone else mentioned here, I didn’t expect to get teary from a 10 minute short by Pauly Shore. I didn’t doubt he had it in him, but I still found it personally shocking as I don’t cry easily. Well done, to all involved!!! Hopefully we can see more soon. 💕

This is legit beautiful. It hurts my heart that Richard thinks this is somehow making fun of him. His legacy should be celebrated.

This actually made me cry. It’s an excellent portrayal of a man with a golden heart who changed a lot of lives, and made people happy.

This is the Mostest Bestest/Perfect Bit of Casting/Typecasting Ever for a Role! Fits him like a Glove(Not Oj's)

This hit hard when it came out. It hits on a new level now. RIP Richard. You were a F'n king!

I had the privilege of meeting Richard, and my mom went to his gym in Ft. Lauderdale, he walked around and spoke to everyone and treated everyone like he knew them his whole life. We had a 5 minute conversation as he was curious as to why I was there. I told him my mom wanted me there in case she did not know the words in english to speak to him. (She did great) he asked me what it was like having to go to things to translate. It is a nice memory, and thank you Paulie to not making fun of him but honor the person he was.