‘DWTS’ Derek Hough Reveals Richard Simmons Changed His Life
Dancing With The Stars judge Derek Hough has plenty of fond memories with fitness guru Richard Simmons. Around the world, Simmons’ fans were incredibly saddened to learn he passed away on July 13, 2024.
Although Richard Simmons hadn’t been active in the public eye for several years, fans remember his bright, warm personality. Now, Derek Hough is sharing his favorite memory with the world.
DWTS Judge Derek Hough Loved Meeting Richard Simmons
Derek Hough has been an integral part of the Dancing With The Stars universe for quite some time. He made his debut in Season 5 with Jennie Garth. He went on to win six Mirrorball Trophies before stepping away from the show and later returning as a judge.
Even though Derek has risen through the ranks, he will never forget the moment he met Richard Simmons during his first season.
“In 2007 My very 1st season on @dancingwiththestars I had the pleasure of meeting this wild ball of energy :)” Derek shared on Instagram. “Mr. Simmons was there to help @jenniegarth with her confidence but ended up boosting mine instead with a song about my ‘perfect’ hair 😂 Rest In Peace 🙏🏼”
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Plenty of Derek’s Instagram followers had kind things to say about Richard Simmons on the post.
One thoughtful user shared, “He was such a funny guy! A man who inspired so many to get fit! Richard Simmons has such great character he was a real funny guy! He was a beloved fitness guru that everyone loved! Such a good person that motivated a lot of people to get healthy! ❤️”
Other comments included:
- “My disabled son was only entertained and kept happy for years by Richard Simmons videos! We are forever grateful!”
- “He was hilarious and always full of positivity and deep emotion.”
- “I met him twice, he was welcoming, loving and took the time to meaningfully greet everyone in the room. He was very special. He will be missed. 😢❤️”
Richard Simmons Appreciated The Life He Had Left
The beloved fitness guru sadly passed away just one day after his 76th birthday. But before Simmons died, he told PEOPLE he was delighted to be alive and treasured every day that he had left.
“I feel good! I am grateful that I’m here, that I am alive for another day. I’ll spend my birthday doing what I do every day, which is to help people,” Simmons told the publication.
How did you react to the news of Richard Simmons’ death? Did you feel surprised to learn that he had such an impact on Derek Hough? Leave your own thoughts and ideas in the comments below.
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