Richard Simmons’ Housekeeper Defends Their Relationship Amid Rumors of Kidnapping

Richard Simmons’ Housekeeper Defends Their Relationship Amid Rumors of Kidnapping

Teresa Reveles, the longtime housekeeper and companion of the late fitness icon Richard Simmons, has recently spoken out about their close relationship in her first broadcast interview. In a candid moment on the Today show, she shared insights into Simmons’ life during his final years.

Reveles began her work with Simmons in 1988 and recalled that some rumors attempted to place blame on her for his withdrawal from the public eye. She was quick to dismiss such notions. When asked during the interview about speculation that she had, in a sense, kidnapped him, Reveles laughed and countered, “No, I think he kidnapped me!”

The Depth of Their Relationship

Reveles maintained that their connection was not romantic in nature but admitted that they were incredibly close. “He fell in love with me right away,” she explained, adding that Simmons often insisted, “No, you’re never going to leave me.” The bond they shared was described by Reveles as multi-faceted, saying, “To me, he was like a brother, like my father, my friend, my boyfriend, my everything.”

She emphasized that they were not romantic partners, declaring, “If anyone is confused by the unconventional relationship we had, that’s their problem. We were very happy, and the last ten years were the most happy years.”29

His Final Years

As Simmons became increasingly reclusive in the years leading up to his passing, Reveles noticed that he struggled with the effects of aging. She stated, “He was not happy that he was getting old. He wanted people to remember him the way he was—full of life.” Reveles described Simmons as never being unhappy or mean throughout their 36 years together, asserting that his demeanor was consistently joyful.

Ultimately, Reveles was the individual who discovered Simmons after he passed away on July 13, 2024. This heartfelt moment left her with memories she described as “crazy” and “sad,” but reassured that he had been very happy in his final days.

Remembering Richard

Tom Estey, a longtime friend of Simmons, expressed sentiments about celebrating Simmons’ life rather than focusing on his tragic end. He stated, “Let’s CELEBRATE Richard—the human being. It’s nearly his Birthday. I worked with him for over 30 years, and we were close friends even longer. I choose to celebrate these milestones.”

On July 11, just two days before his death, Simmons experienced a fall and spent July 12 in bed. He was discovered unresponsive on the morning of July 13. Authorities later confirmed that Simmons suffered blunt traumatic injuries, officially ruled as an accidental death by the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office. Contributing factors included arteriosclerotic cardiovascular disease.

Reveles previously told media outlets that Simmons appeared at peace at the time of his passing. She recounted, “When I saw him, he looked peaceful.” She noted similarities between her own heart attack experience and Simmons’ last moments, as his hands were balled into fists.

A Final Wish

The day before his death, Reveles recalled that Simmons had been experiencing leg pain from the fall and suggested they visit the hospital. Simmons protested, saying, “No, Teresa, not on my birthday. Why don’t we wait and do it in the morning?” Tragically, by the morning, it was too late.

Official reports from the Los Angeles Police Department concluded that no foul play was suspected in his passing, which offered some solace amid the outpouring of grief from fans and friends.

As Reveles reflects on her years with Simmons, it is clear that their relationship transcended the boundaries of mere housekeeper and client. The joy they found in each other’s company provided both support and companionship through the ups and downs of life.

Celebrating His Legacy

As tributes continue to flow in for Simmons, who captivated audiences with his encouragement and enthusiasm for fitness, Reveles remains an essential figure in sharing his true spirit. As she transitions from the role of caretaker to a storyteller, her insights shed light on the complexities of Simmons’ private life.

Despite the rumors that clouded Simmons’ later years, Reveles stands resolute in her commitment to his memory. She expresses hope that others will remember him for the positivity and light he brought to so many lives, declaring that their unique bond was one of pure happiness.