Former Fitness Guru Richard Simmons Denounces Unauthorized Biopic Starring Pauly Shore, Asserts Lack of Permission
Richard Simmons
Richard Simmons, the once-prominent fitness personality who has retreated from public life, has expressed disapproval of an upcoming biopic that was announced by comedian and actor Pauly Shore. The film, as yet unnamed, gained attention due to Shore’s physical resemblance to Simmons, which became the focus of a viral meme. In a rare statement on Facebook, the 75-year-old Simmons stated,
“I have never given my permission for this movie. So don’t believe everything you read.” Simmons, who no longer has a manager or publicist, emphasized his desire for a quiet life and thanked his supporters.
The biopic, described as a “dramatic and heartfelt feature in the tone of Little Miss Sunshine,” is reportedly in development as a Warner Bros subsidiary, the Wolper Organisation production. While Shore expressed his intentions to contact Simmons personally, the fitness guru emphasized his privacy and disapproval of the project. The production company stated they would honor Simmons’ desire for privacy while aiming to produce a movie that celebrates his impactful life.
Simmons rose to fame in the 1980s with health and fitness appearances, Sweatin’ to the Oldies videos, and an energetic persona. His sudden withdrawal from public life led to a podcast, Missing Richard Simmons, in 2017, exploring the mystery of his disappearance. Simmons clarified that he valued privacy, and the podcast faced criticism for its approach. Shore, set to play Simmons in the biopic, acknowledged Simmons’ privacy concerns but expressed optimism about connecting with him.
