Finding Richard Simmons…

Posted on by beautybeyondbones

I did something I haven’t done in a while.

I listened to an entire podcast in one weekend.

Six episodes. Six hours. One highly entertaining and productive weekend.

The show?

Missing Richard Simmons.

Yes, you read that right: Richard Simmons. As in, the eccentric, bedazzled tank-wearing exercise guru that made a killing through home dance workout videos in the 90s.


Now, I have a confession.

Long before my anorexia in high school, (and long before my unhealthy obsession with exercise that followed shortly after) I sort of had this…love…of Richard Simmons.

I’m not talking romantic.

I’m talking, I just loved his vibe.

I don’t know how it happened, but I somehow ended up with three Richard Simmons “Groovin’ Oldies” exercise videos with hallmark Richie sporting a jerry curl and purple sequined hot pants.


I’m gonna be honest, I think I felt a kindred spirit with Richard. His effervescence matched my goofy side. And I loved it.

I could still bust out the choreography if the right Aretha Franklin tune came on, complete with “sparkle hands” and high kicks.

So, obviously this podcast piqued my interest.

You see, Richard Simmons has been missing since 2014. He disappeared. Hasn’t been seen or heard from. And so this podcast set out to find him.

They interviewed his house keeper, and his friends. Dove into his past, and got all up into his personal life – including his nearly 2-year stint at a Catholic seminary, his battle with obesity, and then bulimia and other eating disorders. They played old interviews from various talk shows, where we could hear him talk about his struggles with his weight, and his life in isolation from friends.

It was all very…voyeuristic, I’d say. Entertaining, yes. But it was just a little too personal. A little too creepy. Especially since Richard didn’t sign up to have his life scrutinized.

What bothered me the most, was that all the dirt the narrator was uncovering, all the skeletons in Richard’s closet that he was exposing, sure it may have made for riveting podcast material, but at the end of the day, that wasn’t his story to tell. It was Richard’s. And only Richard’s.

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It was really eye opening to listen to this podcast while I’m revising the manuscript for my book about, well, the literal skeletons in my own closet. And how, a person’s story is sacred. It’s their life. What they’ve been through. Overcome. The times they’re fallen, and the moments of strife — those aren’t fodder for some edgy storyline. They’re the challenges and the difficulties that have shaped a life.

And Richard, I’m sorry that I listened to your story, without your permission.

Because the truth is, a person’s story is worth telling…but only if and when that person wants to share it.

I know I’ve recklessly shared a lot of really personal things on this blog, and coming up, I’ll be taking that even a step further, but the difference is, I’m choosing to.

I’m putting it all out there with the hope that perhaps one girl who is suffering from an eating disorder might find help. Hope. Comfort, knowing that she’s not alone.

Richard didn’t ask to have his life put on display for the world to judge. That’s his story. His journey. And his information to share.

I will just leave you with this:

Richard Simmons fought a lot of demons in his life. He was tormented by a lot of things that could have led to his demise. But you know what? He didn’t let it.

He turned his life around and created incredible positivity from pain. Beauty from ashes.

And sure, people can jab and laugh at his eccentric outfits and goofy dance moves and silly persona, but at the end of the day, he not only changed his own life, but he helped millions and millions of people turn their lives around too.

So Richard, thank you for the incredibly positive impact you’ve made, truly for the whole world. And I hope that wherever you are, you are okay.

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BBB: Because we're all recovering from something. // For speaking/business inquiries: beautybeyondbones@yahoo.com

237 thoughts on “Finding Richard Simmons…”

  3. It seems that conquering oneself is an important thing to accomplish. I just read a book on survival, and the lessons from people’s tales of staying alive was that mental strength and keeping hope were crucial.

    Liked by 2 people

  6. Loved your post. and while I’m umm a lot? A little? Okay A lot older than you…LOL.. I was on the whole Richard Simmons bandwagon in the 80’s as well. Before I got sick and lost so much weight I had all his video tapes his diet plan with the cards etc LOL.. and yes I too have always liked Richard for his enthusiasm for life etc.. I also do not like a lot of the things that have been written about him in the past year.. We have no idea whats happened or is happening to him but yet again the world strikes with gossip… Wonderful post as always 🙂 XO

    Liked by 3 people

  7. It is an interesting question you raise, about how much a public figures life is theirs to keep to themselves and control. As the web retains everything and forgets nothing, as more and more of every aspect is searchable, it raises questions that you put and even more interesting spin on. Thanks 🙂

    Now about your fascination with jackfruit…… 😀 LOL
    be good sister xo

    Liked by 3 people

    1. Thanks Jeff! Yeah that is definitely an interesting thing to ponder. Haha oh my gosh – JACKFRUIT! Don’t get me started! I found a supplier here in Ohio — jackpot!!! 🙌🎉 haha thanks for stopping by! Hugs and love xox

      Liked by 2 people

  8. I had no idea he was missing! I spent a lot of hours with Richard in the 80’s and really appreciated his ability to laugh things off when people saw HIM as a joke. I’m saddened that he’s gone, but you never know, he might reignite his career in a totally new incarnation.

    Liked by 2 people

  9. Good word, pastor! Taking the situation we have and turning it around for the good of all! Like Jesus said”, your faith has healed you.” You are a beacon of light for those who are still struggling! Keep up your good work! Prayers for your Mom and family.

    Liked by 4 people

    1. Hey Rick! Thanks so much:) gosh you’re so generous with your kind words. Thank you. Thanks for keeping the prayers going for my mom. They are working!! 👏👏👏have a great evening! Hugs and love xox

      Like

  10. I started to read and concluded that for once there was nothing for me here because I never had the least interest in Richard Simmons. Until I finished. You were kind to him and made me care about Richard after all. Well done!

    Liked by 4 people

    1. Haha oh gosh thanks JP. Yeah it’s safe to say that he was not always everyone’s cup of tea. But he really did do a lot of good, and I just hope everything’s okay. Thanks for sticking it out to the end 🙂 big hugs to you xox

      Liked by 2 people

  11. I adore Richard, he is all heart (a fellow Cancerian like myself) and he TRULY cares about people. He’s allowed to take time away from the spotlight and take a break as he sees fit and although we all miss his glittery energy, we all have to respect his privacy.

    Liked by 3 people

  12. He use to have a TV show that was before your time I’m sure. He always seemed so genuinely caring about the people he was trying to help, as if what he was doing was truly his calling.

    Liked by 2 people

    1. Hi Kate, thank you so much for this! Yeah from what I’ve listened to in his interviews, he really did consider it his calling. And gosh, what a great job he did in that mission. A burst of positivity! Hugs and love xox

      Like

  14. Your post is timely since he’s been in the news lately for suing a tabloid — i.e., getting all up in his business.
    But as for the podcast, appearances on talk shows were fair game since he provided the information. So were interviews with his housekeeper and friends. Unless you’re a recluse, life isn’t one-sided. Anne Lamott once wrote, “You own everything that happened to you. Tell your stories. If people wanted you to write warmly about them, they should have behaved better.” Richard’s friends and housekeeper have the right to tell their stories about their life with him just as Richard has the right to say whatever he wants about his interactions with them.
    But I’m a memoir writer, so I’m biased.

    Liked by 5 people

  15. I remember Richard Simmons and before him, Jack Lalanne. I knew that many moms were watching Lalanne and then their adult kids – Simmons. Then the world got 24 hour TV. The healthy retreat before celebrity makes them nuts.

    Liked by 2 people

      1. That is amazing! How are you publishing? I am so glad you are doing this. I have plans for one on anorexia eventually but I have to get the one I am working on now done before that haha. (All the hugs)

        Liked by 1 person

  18. I think you may have the most popular blog I have ever seen! 25,000 followers and all these comments! Send some my way haha. So close to 1000!

    Liked by 2 people

  19. I loved Richard Simmons’ infectious smile, vibrant personality and sense of humor all the while not giving a rip about what others thought of him. He did things his way and that was pretty cool. I got into exercising because of him. I thought if he had that much fun exercising, I could too. Till this very day, I’m still an exercise nut. Thanks for sharing your insightfulness!

    Liked by 4 people

    1. Hi friend, thanks for this thoughtful response. A vibrant personality definitely sums it up. What a gift he gave others through his positivity and encouragement. thanks for stopping by! big hugs ox

      Like

  20. I really enjoyed this one, Caralyn! Poignant, sympathetic, and loving. I was never into his style, but I did see where he did a lot of people a lot of good, so hat’s off to him! Once again, listening over at Patreon made this even better. Comments for you there!

    Liked by 2 people

    1. Thanks so much Jeff 🙂 Yeah, hats off to him indeed! Thanks for the awesome reflection at Patreon. I seriously am not kidding when I say I learn so much from you every time. You are a blessing to me! (but then you already knew that!!) 😉 😉 big hugs to you and Julie…and HAPPY ALMOST-FRIDAY!! 🙂

      Liked by 1 person

      1. Once I’m past Wednesday I always say that I can “smell the weekend from here!” And don’t forget what a blessing you are to me too. My prayers continue for you, your mom, and family as she continues her journey. I’ll be sure to include your re-writes too. When I was trying to work on “The Substance Hoped For” I ended up getting kinda numb from trying to keep going over 400+ pages. If you can afford to hire a freelance editor, do it! I think you have great potential to get published, because of your reach through BBB and your starting up of being a motivational speaker. Certainly a better chance than I did. That’s EXACTLY the kind of package publishers are looking for. I’ll want to buy an autographed copy when it comes out!!! Hugs and blessings to you!

        Liked by 1 person

  21. I remember first seeing him on t.v. when I was a teenager. The thing most apparent about Richard Simmons? His genuine compassion for those struggling with being overweight. When he would talk with someone battling to reach a healthy weight, you could see their pain in his eyes. I find it so sad that for a lot of people he’s become a caricature of sorts, the brunt of jokes and mean-spiritedness. I think he was (and is, hopefully) a good man.

    Liked by 4 people

    1. Hi Laura! thanks for this. I so agree, he was so compassionate and positive and encouraging. it was a really beautiful thing. And i agree, the mean-spiritedness makes me sad. he really changed a lot of people’s lives for the better. thanks for stopping by! big hugs xox

      Liked by 1 person

  25. Thank you so much for sharing this. I’ve often wondered what happened to him, but never enough to search. I remember is Sweatin to the Oldies videos and his infectious smile and genuine concern for people. He is one of a kind. Blessings to you on your upcoming book.

    Liked by 3 people

    1. Thanks so much! Yeah, he is an exercise institution. And you’re so right- his energy is so positive and so amazing. Thanks for stopping by and taking the time to read! Hugs and love xox

      Like

  28. I remember seeing RS on TV when I was younger. Certainly a real personality there. I had no idea he was missing. Like, seriously, in this day and age how does someone so famous disappear? I sure hope he’s ok! I like your post. Thanks.

    Liked by 3 people

  31. Hi Caralyn. Liked this post.Your blog is awesome.And best of luck for the book that you are writing.Your power of expression is grt and yr writings are very original and sweet.I love your blog.Keep up the good work and wishing good health and recovery to your mom.Take care.And forgot to mention ,you are very beautiful. Bi.

    Liked by 2 people

    1. Oh gosh, thank you so much! wow, what a kind thing to say. i’m so glad that you’ve enjoyed reading my blog! that seriously warms my heart, so thank you. and thanks for your kind words for my mama. that means a lot 🙂 big hugs to you xox

      Like

  32. Ashes make diamonds. We are carbon also but, that’s off subject. Maybe, your story is a lot like Richard’s? A little worried about how it floats out there. I shopped my story it was turned down. Oh well, I saw parts of it appear in the last few war movies. It’s life.

    Liked by 2 people

      1. I used to work at a mortuary. Sometimes the dead wanted their ashes to be compressed into diamonds. Rich people. I didn’t take offense you know. Art is a kind of blend of things, some of my ideas and hopefully, most of theirs.

        Liked by 1 person

      5. Stories happen not at the center but in the margins. To tie your last post to this one. You have gained a perspective that will allow you to write more. Maybe.

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      7. You looked pretty, twirling about in the last post also. Here too but, I don’t know. I forgot to mention it.

        Like

      9. I guess…I owe you dinner. Oy! What’s a dinner in Manhattan cost? Haha Probably more than rent.

        Like

      11. Zelda would not marry F. Scott Fitzgerald until he published a book. I guess we all have our hangups for, relationships.

        Like

    1. Thank you so much, Penny. Yeah, his life has been full of so much compassion for others, it makes my heart sad to see that compassion not returned in his time of obvious need. thanks for taking the time to read and for your kind words! big hugs xox

      Like

  35. My dear friend,

    I cannot say anything about Richard Simmons, as I do not know him – but I can say something about you: I like your honesty. Honesty has its residence in the heart and from there we can treat ourselves and others as sunbeams reflecting from it – so you have brightened my face and heart with your honesty – thank, dear friend 🙂

    Didi

    Liked by 2 people

    1. Oh, Didi, you are so kind. thank you for this generous comment. wow what a beautiful image — sunbeams reflecting the honesty of our hearts. my goodness, that is one of the nicest things anyone has ever said to me. thank you with all my heart. big hugs to you xox

      Liked by 1 person

  36. Thank you for sharing this story of you watching the Richard Simmons’ life. I did not know he disappeared. It saddens me how lonely and lost he must have felt, and maybe still does. And I couldn’t agree with you more about the fact Richard did not give his permission to share his story. I am encouraging others to tell their story. I believe in the power of connecting with others through story. The trouble is all our stories overlap with someone’s in our lives. We do not live in a vacuum. All pain and love and freedom impacts and has been affected by others on our journey. I look forward to your book. I am writing two, a very long process. Also, I followed you on Instagram. I am @jayjule03. My account is protected but just request and I accept 🙂 May your day be blessed.

    Liked by 2 people

    1. thank you so much julie! oh wow, good luck with the book writing! how exciting! and i so agree – there really is power when we tell our stories. because you’re right – we’re all in this together, and we can all learn and grow from listening to one another. that’s the beautiful thing about life and community 🙂 thanks for stopping by and for this lovely comment. have a great weekend. big hugs xox

      Liked by 1 person

  38. ” a person’s story is sacred. It’s their life. What they’ve been through. Overcome. The times they’re fallen, and the moments of strife — those aren’t fodder for some edgy storyline. They’re the challenges and the difficulties that have shaped a life.
    …a person’s story is worth telling…but only if and when that person wants to share it.”

    Darling, you are so wise at your young age. You (knowingly or unknowingly) point out that to have revealed my sister’s issues to strangers was probably inappropriate. The only saving grace is perhaps the prayers uttered in response. Your heart continues to open and mature. Keep it up, dearest. You’re doing so much good.

    (Richard, wherever you are, I too hope you are doing okay.)

    Liked by 2 people

  39. I love this post. That’s the problem I have with the media- they talk about things that are too personal and raw, things that are private and should remain private. It’s why I’m hesitant to become a journalist. But I love the way you write; you always encourage me! 😊 happy Friday! And also, you’re beautiful 😊

    Liked by 2 people

  40. I grew up watching Richard and adored him. You’re so right that a person’s private life is just that- private. I fear that we’ve lost all sense of privacy in this world except when it comes to a certain issue, but I’ll save that for another day.

    Liked by 2 people

  42. Yes, I wholly agree that one’s life’s story – which, in an individual existential sense, I consider as sacred text – is one’s life’s story, thus, hers or his to tell when freely choosing to do so.

    Liked by 2 people

  43. I think your take on Richard Simmons is smart. Admittedly, the title peeked my interest and reading it I kind of felt like I was reading gossip. But I knew if I kept reading it would have a purpose and it did. I have been wondering what happened and where is he, too but you made some beautiful points to consider. Well done!

    Liked by 2 people

  44. Agree with your assessment of the podcast. But I read the post b/c – I also love Richard Simmons (don’t tell anyone-this is private right?)! He’s always made me laugh, he’s so so incredibly goofy which I identify with (he does the crazy stuff I think in my head) and I’ve seen how he really loves women who struggle with their weight – he seems very kind hearted (maybe he’s helped men too – I’ve just seen him with women being very compassionate).

    Liked by 1 person

  46. I saw a blip about him on E! Channel a couple months ago, the topic you describe here. Did you find out where he went? I guess I never knew who he was, except that all of a sudden, he was getting talked about for being gone! I thought Barbarella was the famous one doing workout videos. Jane Fonda, or whatever they call ‘er now. ‘The communist’, I think, my dad calls her. So, where is he? You made me curious, like ol’ Paul Harvey stories every morning my dad turned on right before we had to run catch the bus before we irked out bus driver. I didn’t want to go to school, cuz Paul Harvey hadn’t finished the story…

    Liked by 1 person

      1. I guess they would be funny, but memory has a way of making them not-so-funny. Except the time I about got my head decapitated by the metal side boards for the grain box, that we was lodging into place on the truck bed. The box was suspended by chain from a loader tractor, and the chain slipped, box swung my way. I dodged, but I sure felt the rush of wind, real close-like. Felt like a hair or two mighta got nicked from that 2000 pounds of jagged iron. A neighbor had just stopped to offer help with …. whatever. He saw that happen, hopped right in his pickup and sped away. Some people just don’t have a stomach for near-decapitation. Sheesh! Aren’t some people literally crazy?! Death has got to be better than the alternative, anyway.

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  47. Rudy Galindo. He is my Richard Simmons. Someone flamboyant and true, totally at ease in his own skin and with who he is. Nothing contrived. Shouldn’t we all want that? Effervescence is the perfect word for Richard Simmons. Those of us who saw that – beyond the flashy clothes and curly head – really received his message. Beautiful post.

    Liked by 1 person

  48. when I was going through depression and needed to laugh one thing that made me laugh was watching rediculousness. watching people doing dumb things and getting hurt for it was the only thing that helped. having something that can make you smile is the best thing in the word especially when you are going through things and dont want to talk.
    -A.L.H

    Liked by 1 person

  50. Totally get how you’re feeling I used to read us weekly magazine which is nothing more than a more acceptable tabloid. And I felt like I was looking into lives that I didn’t belong in I stop subscribing couple years ago and I’m still getting the magazine but I just throw it away

    Liked by 1 person

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