Fitness personality Richard Simmons dead at 76 [Video]

Richard Simmons, the perennial 1980s workout personality who was defined by his uplifting spirit, has died, according to his long-time publicist Tom Estey.

Estey said Simmons died early on Saturday morning. He had celebrated his 76th birthday the day before. “We lost an Angel today – a true Angel,” Estey added.

CNN has reached out to the Los Angeles Police Department, Fire Department and L.A. County Medical Examiner for additional details.

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From 1980 to 1984, Simmons hosted the “Richard Simmons Show,” which had a focus on personal health and fitness. The program won four Daytime Emmys.

Simmons was also well known for his aerobic exercise videos, including 1988’s “Sweatin’ to the Oldies” and its subsequent instalments in 1990 and 1991.

From there, and thanks to his unflappable smile and playful personality, Simmons was able to …