Fitness icon Richard Simmons, 76, was found unresponsive at his home one day after his birthday, prompting an investigation into his official cause of death, though no foul play is suspected, authorities said.

Despite being classified as natural causes by the Los Angeles Fire Department, the Los Angeles Medical Examiner’s Office has deferred Richard Simmons' case for further examination, which is expected to take up to three months. This comes after Simmons declined medical help following a fall the night before his death, and was later found unresponsive by his housekeeper. Fans and the fitness community mourn his passing as questions about his final moments and health conditions remain.

According to law enforcement sources, Simmons suffered a fall in his bathroom on his birthday, the night before he was found unresponsive. Despite the incident, he refused medical assistance. The following morning at around 10 a.m., Simmons' housekeeper discovered him unresponsive on the floor next to his bed and immediately called emergency services. Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) officers and fire officials responded to the call, but Simmons was pronounced dead at the scene.

The Los Angeles Fire Department has classified the death as due to natural causes. However, the Los Angeles Medical Examiner’s Office is conducting an in-depth investigation into the official cause of death. This examination includes additional testing and could take up to three months before a definitive ruling is made. The initial classification and the ongoing probe indicate that while no foul play is suspected, other significant conditions could have contributed to Simmons’ death.

Richard Simmons had been diagnosed with skin cancer. Despite his medical condition, Simmons maintained a positive outlook on life. In a recent interview with People magazine, he expressed feeling 'good' and 'grateful' for his life, showing no apparent concern about his health. His official cause of death is being investigated, with the medical examination and additional testing taking up to 3 months to determine an official ruling.

Simmons’ death has hit the fitness community hard as he had been an iconic figure for decades. However, it is worth noting that he had not been seen in public for nearly a decade. His reclusive lifestyle in recent years led to much speculation, yet his influence on the fitness world remained undeniable.

Confirmation of Simmons' death came from his longtime representative, Tom Estey, who has been handling queries from both media and fans. Estey has not provided additional details but affirmed that Simmons' housekeeper found him unresponsive, leading to the emergency call.

While the LAPD has confirmed that no foul play is suspected in Simmons' death, the ongoing investigation by the Medical Examiner’s Office will look into various angles, including his refusal of medical help after his fall and any other underlying health conditions he may have had.

Simmons was known for his energetic personality and dedication to helping people achieve their fitness goals. His workout videos and public appearances in the 80s and 90s made him a household name, and he continued to be an inspiration to many even in his absence from the public eye over the past decade.

As the investigation continues, fans and the fitness community are left to reflect on Simmons' contributions to the industry and his positive impact on millions of lives. The final results of the Medical Examiner's investigation will potentially provide closure and more insight into the circumstances surrounding his death.

With the case still open and awaiting further medical results, those closest to Simmons, including long-time friends and fans, are choosing to remember him for the joy and motivation he brought into their lives. Tributes have been pouring in on social media, celebrating his life and expressing sadness over his passing.

The full details regarding his death will be unveiled following the completion of the investigation by the Medical Examiner’s Office. Until then, Richard Simmons will be remembered as a fitness legend who dedicated his life to helping others lead healthier lives.