The Mystery of Richard Simmons: A Diane Sawyer Special
8:00 pm - 9:00 pm, Monday, June 1 on WABC HDTV (7.1)
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About this Broadcast
The new hourlong special is a joyful and revealing portrait of an American superstar. With his boundless energy and signature warmth, Simmons built one of the most enduring fitness empires in American culture, becoming a popular fixture on television and in the daily lives of millions for over three decades.
2026
English
Stereo
Documentary
Profile
Other
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Did You Know..
Richard Simmons
(Actor)
Born:
July 12, 1948
Died: July 13, 2024
Birthplace: New Orleans, Louisiana, United States
Died: July 13, 2024
Birthplace: New Orleans, Louisiana, United States
Trivia:
Both his parents were vaudeville and burlesque performers. His first job was selling pralines on street corners in the French Quarter of New Orleans when he was 8 years old. Took the name "Richard" after an uncle who paid for his college tuition. Was an obese child, weighing 200 lbs in the eighth grade and 268 lbs when he graduated high school. Considered becoming a priest before entering college to study art. While living in Florence, Italy as an exchange student, he appeared in many television commercials including one where he played a dancing meatball. Around the age of 20 he lost 149 lbs in two and a half months. His starvation diet landed him in the hospital and caused all his hair to fall out. The experience inspired him to learn about healthy dieting and exercise. Owns 400 pairs of his trademark Dolfin brand shorts. Collects art glass and dolls, and has over 400 dolls he displays on a rotating basis at his Hollywood Hills home. His 65 fitness videos have sold over 20 million copies. With the help of Congressmen Zach Wamp and Ron Kind, he introduced the Fit Kids Bill in favor of funding physical education in schools and has testified on its behalf.
