In the weeks leading up to his death, Richard Simmons only noticed "vibrant rainbows."

In his final days before death, Richard Simmons continued to be a beacon of positivity and light.

Simmons passed away on July 13, a day after his 76th birthday, but he provided an update on his health to Closer in March 2024, stating that he felt good at the time.

"I have been through a lot, but now all I see are beautiful bright rainbows," he said in an email to the outlet. "Please convey my greetings and thanks to your readers for their concern."

The Los Angeles Police Department has deferred the cause of his death, indicating that further investigation and testing are necessary before a definitive explanation can be provided. Officials confirmed to Planet Chronicle Digital that there was no foul play involved in his death.

In the 1970s, the television personality and fitness instructor launched his career by establishing Slimmons, a workout gym in Los Angeles, where he offered aerobics and motivational classes.

In 1980, the success of his workout video series "Sweatin' to the Oldies" led to the premiere of "The Richard Simmons Show," a talk show that emphasized health and wellness.

Simmons aimed to establish a welcoming atmosphere that encouraged individuals to prioritize their well-being, frequently showcasing ordinary-looking individuals in his exercise videos instead of extremely fit models. His energetic and optimistic demeanor was evident in his vibrant sequined workout attire, which helped put people at ease rather than making them feel intimidated.

"I have been through a lot. But now all I see are beautiful bright rainbows." — Richard Simmons

In 1980, he told Huell Howser that he was just an average, overweight, unhappy teenager living in New Orleans, Louisiana, and now all his dreams were coming true.

In March 2024, the fitness icon announced on Facebook that he had been diagnosed with skin cancer after discovering a "strange looking bump under his right eye" which would not go away, prompting him to visit his dermatologist.

"He sat in my chair and examined it through a magnifying mirror. He informed me that he would need to scrape it and analyze it under a microscope. Now, I am feeling anxious as he returns 20 minutes later and declares the C word: "You have cancer.""

After three procedures, the doctors successfully cleared all cancer cells, and he was declared cancer-free.

Despite the challenges Simmons faced in the past few months of his life, he was thrilled to celebrate his 76th birthday earlier this month, expressing his desire to give back on his special day in an interview with People magazine just before his passing.

"He expressed his happiness and gratitude for being alive, stating that he would spend his birthday assisting others as he does daily."

In recent years, Simmons, a workout enthusiast, became less visible to his fans as he stepped back from public life. In the days before his death, he took comfort in knowing he had helped many people over the years.

"Simmons revealed to People that his decision to retire was prompted by his body's signal that it was time to retire. He spent time reflecting on his life, considering the books he wrote and the videos he created. Unlike others who might focus on their accomplishments, Simmons' primary concern was the number of people he had helped."