“I know when it's time for us to go” -  Late General Hospital star Richard Simmons reflects on loss in final interview before demise

General Hospital star Richard Simmons passed away on July 13, 2024. He had a rare interview with PEOPLE magazine, and this marked his first interview since retiring from the public eye in 2014. In the interview, Richard Simmons recalled,

"I know when it's time for us to go."

Just a day before his 76th birthday and shortly before his passing at home in Los Angeles, he was singing Happy Birthday to himself in a playful Marilyn Monroe imitation. Growing up in New Orleans, he faced weight challenges. It tipped the scales at 268 lbs upon graduating high school in 1966.

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General Hospital star Richard Simmons's final interview

Richard Simmons, in his interview on July 11, talked about retiring. This was because his body told him it was time. He focused on helping people through his books and videos. Simmons mentioned getting many fan emails, and this always reminded him that he was just like them, not special.

"And they'll say, 'I'm your No. 1 fan.' And I just write back, and I say, you know, 'Don't say that because I'm a human being just like you. And I know that you do good things, too.'"

Simmons also discussed his Broadway show, throwing light on the collaborations with Patrick Leonard. He wrote lyrics for songs about his life. This was from selling pralines as a child to retiring.

Starting with a salad bar in his fitness studio led to roles in General Hospital and infomercials. He also reflected on changes in the fitness industry since retiring and his philosophy on weight loss methods like surgery and drugs.

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How did Richard Simmons stay connected?

Richard Simmons talked about helping people daily at home. Before he passed away, his happy personality became a mystery. This included questions about where he was and if he was safe. Those close to him said he stayed away partly, mainly because he needed knee surgery but refused it.

Simmons said he hadn't disappeared. He kept in touch by emailing fans and friends every day and making supportive phone calls. He talked about his recent removal of basal cell carcinoma. The actor also encouraged other people dealing with cancer.

Just a few months earlier, he worked on a musical. This was done with composer Patrick Leonard, who looked forward to each new day. Despite setbacks, Simmons stayed positive at all times. He planned a birthday celebration with a single candle in a zucchini.

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How did General Hospital star Richard Simmons achieve fame?

General Hospital star Richard Simmons's journey to fame began in Los Angeles. There, he opened Ruffage and the Anatomy Asylum in 1974. It combined a health-food eatery with an exercise studio.

Simmons' career soared with nine books. This included bestsellers and popular diet plans like Deal-A-Meal and FoodMover. His workout videos sold over 22 million copies, and the most popular song included Sweatin' to the Oldies.

He frequently appeared at General Hospital and hosted a talk show in the '80s. The actor also charmed audiences on shows like David Letterman's and Rosie O’Donnell's. Recognized for his curly hair, Simmons remained a source of joy for millions.

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Throughout the interview, Simmons emphasized his humor. He shared how it helped him cope with childhood bullying. He shared a poignant moment of forgiveness with a man who had once harmed him, and he encouraged people facing struggles to find strength in kindness and acceptance.