What was Richard Simmons’ cause of death?

The death behind popular fitness personality Richard Simmons was a heart disease and recent falls as a contributing factor. His brother Lenny Simmons disclosed on Wednesday, one and a half months after he died.

Simmons, a staple of ’80s-era TV, who died on July 13, had celebrated his 76th birthday the day prior.

After his death, media reports surfaced that Simmons sustained injuries as he had fallen in his bathroom the night of his birthday, but refused medical attention at the behest of his housekeeper. However, Simmons was found unresponsive next to his bed the next day morning.

After his death, his housekeeper Teresa Reveles told the media that prior to his death, Simmons couldn’t exercise or teach fitness classes as he had knee replacement surgery, and needed another one.

Citing notification Simmons’ brother received from the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner, Thomas Estey, Simmons’ representative, issued a statement to the magazine People on August 21.

According to the statement, as a contributing factor, the death of Richard was accidental due to complications from recent falls and heart disease. The toxicology report was negative except for the drug Richard had been prescribed.

The American fitness instructor and television personality was a promoter of weight-loss programs. His most promotion became through his Sweatin’ to the Oldies line of aerobics videos.

By opening his gym Slimmons in Beverly Hills, California, Simmons started his weight-loss career. His fame has grown through exposure on television and the popularity of his consumer products.

 He was often a frequent guest on late-night television and radio talk shows.

The Late Show with David Letterman and The Howard Stern Show were among them.

Born in New Orleans, Louisiana on July 12, 1948, Slimmons continued to promote health and exercise through a decades-long career.