On Wednesday, August 21, Tom Estey , the Simmons family spokesperson, released a statement confirming the fitness guru's death was "accidental."
Richard Simmons passed away at age 76 on July 13. mega
"This morning, Richard Simmons' brother Lenny , received a call from the LA Coroner's office," the message obtained by a news publication revealed.
Estey continued: "The Coroner informed Lenny that Richard's death was accidental due to complications from recent falls and heart disease as a contributing factor. The toxicology report was negative other than medication Richard had been prescribed."
"The Family wishes to thank everyone for their outpouring of love and support during this time of great loss," the statement concluded. "The world has truly lost an angel."
Richard Simmons was a beloved fitness instructor and television personality. mega
As OK! previously reported, Simmons' was pronounced dead inside of his home on Saturday, July 13, as OK! previously reported.
The police and fire department were called around 10 a.m. after his longtime housekeeper found Simmons unresponsive, law enforcement revealed at the time.
The Los Angeles Police Department said "no foul play" had been suspected, however, his cause of death was originally deferred until further testing could be completed.
Simmons spent his last day on earth responding to fans' birthday wishes. mega
On Friday, July 12, which was one day before Simmons died and also his 76th birthday, the beloved fitness coach felt dizzy and fell while in his bathroom, a report revealed last month.
His housekeeper attempted to take him to a medical facility , but Simmons stubbornly declined, as he wanted to stay home while celebrating his special day.
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Simmons’ final moments were spent showcasing his appreciation toward those who loved him — including his fans, as he uploaded a social media post thanking his supporters for all of the kind words.
"Thank you…I never got so many messages about my birthday in my life! I am sitting here writing emails," Simmons wrote. "Have a most beautiful rest of your Friday. Love, Richard."
Richard Simmons said he was 'grateful' to be 'alive' just days before his tragic death. mega
That same week, Simmons had said he was feeling "good" during an interview with People .
"I am grateful that I'm here , that I am alive for another day," Simmons eerily declared just days before his death . "I'll spend my birthday doing what I do every day, which is to help people."
Reflecting on his successful career, the television personality admitted: "I never thought of myself as a celebrity."
"People don't know this, I'm really a shy person and a little bit of an introvert," he confessed. "But when that curtain goes up that's a different story. I'm there to make people happy."
People obtained a statement from the Simmons family's spokesperson.
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