Officially, Richard Simmons' cause of death remains under wraps, but his brother Lenny is speaking out about how the fitness guru died.
“The coroner has informed Lenny that Richard’s death was accidental due to complications from recent falls and heart disease as a contributing factor,” family spokesman Tom Estey told People in a statement released Wednesday. Estey added that Simmons’ toxicology report came back negative for other drugs “in addition to the medication that Richard had been prescribed.”
A spokesman for the Los Angeles medical examiner would not confirm details of Simmons' death but told The Times on Wednesday that the cause of death and autopsy report “are not yet finalized.”
Lenny revealed information about his brother's death after the self-proclaimed Weight Saint, who built a workout video empire and was known for his energy and bright, dazzling outfits, passed away on July 13. He died a day after celebrating his 76th birthday.
Simmons’ brother also appears to have confirmed reports that the pop culture icon died after falling at his Los Angeles home, TMZ reported in July. The TV personality’s housekeeper attempted to get him to seek medical attention, but he shrugged it off, authorities told the outlet at the time.
Simmons' body was found at his home. At the time of his death, sources told The Times there was no evidence of a crime at his residence. The Los Angeles County coroner's database still lists Simmons' cause of death as “deferred.” His body was released on July 17.
Simmons was buried at Pierce Bros. Westwood Village Memorial Park and Mortuary a week after his death, TMZ reported, citing the fitness personality's death certificate.
“The family would like to thank everyone for their outpouring of love and support during this time of great loss,” added Estey, who represented Simmons for more than 30 years.
