‘Dancing with the Stars’ judge Derek Hough recently paid tribute to the legendary fitness personality Richard Simmons, following Simmons’ passing on Saturday, July 13, just a day after his 76th birthday. The news was confirmed by Simmons’ publicist, Tom Estey, and has left fans and friends, including Hough, mourning the loss of the effervescent star.
Hough, 39, shared a touching tribute on his social media on Monday, July 15. He posted behind-the-scenes footage from 2007, showing Simmons visiting Hough and his dance partner, Jennie Garth, 52. In his post, Hough recalled how Simmons was initially there to boost Garth’s confidence but ended up boosting his own instead.
“In 2007, my very first season on @dancingwiththestars, I had the pleasure of meeting this wild ball of energy,” Hough wrote on Instagram. “Mr. Simmons was there to help @jenniegarth with her confidence but ended up boosting mine instead with a song about my ‘perfect’ hair. Rest In Peace.”
The video showed Simmons humorously interacting with Garth about Hough’s “perfect hair,” eventually breaking into an impromptu song. “Derek’s got perfect hair,” Simmons sang, concluding with, “And I don’t want you to mess it up!”
Just two days before his death, Simmons gave an interview where he discussed his simple plans for his 76th birthday, expressing his gratitude for being “alive for another day.”
Lynn Herring, star of ‘General Hospital,’ also shared her memories of Simmons, who appeared on the daytime soap in 2013. “Richard Simmons meant a lot to so many folks, including me,” said Herring, who plays Lucy Coe. “When Richard walked on our General Hospital stage, it would sizzle with his life force, his wicked sense of humor, his joy of entertaining, and his love for us all.” She recalled a thoughtful gesture from Simmons, who gifted her a shirt with a beautiful jeweled bird on it, leaving it in her dressing room with a simple note: “Love, Richard.”
“Thank you, Richard, for all you gave of yourself to so many!” Herring concluded, echoing the sentiments of many who were touched by Simmons’ vibrant personality and generous spirit.
Richard Simmons will be remembered not only for his contributions to fitness but also for his infectious energy and the positive impact he had on countless individuals, including Derek Hough and Lynn Herring. His legacy of joy, humor, and kindness continues to inspire.
