Cause of death of Richard Simmons: accident, falls and heart disease

Richard Simmons' brother Lenny has confirmed that the fitness guru died of natural causes.

In a statement issued with People A Simmons family spokesman told the magazine that Lenny received a call from the Los Angeles County Coroner's Office informing him that Simmons' death “was ruled an accident due to complications from recent falls and a contributing factor to heart disease.”

The spokesperson also confirmed that the toxicology report was “negative other than the medications Richard was prescribed.” Simmons' family also thanked fans for “their overwhelming love and support during this time of great loss.”

The '80s icon died at his Los Angeles home on July 13, one day after his 76th birthday. He was found in the morning by his housekeeper, who called 911.

“I don't want people to be sad about my brother,” Lenny said in a statement he shared with The Hollywood Reporter at the time of Simmons' death. “I want them to remember him for the genuine joy and love he brought to people's lives. He truly cared about people. He called, wrote and emailed thousands of people throughout his career to offer them help. So don't be sad. Celebrate his life.”

TMZ reported that the night before his death, Simmons fell in his bathroom because he was dizzy and refused to accept medical attention despite his housekeeper's insistence that he see a doctor. He reportedly told her he would rather see his doctor the next day; she complied with his request and helped him back to bed.

That evening, Simmons shared his final message on Facebook with his fans, thanking them for their birthday wishes. “Thank you… I have never had so many messages on my birthday in my life! I'm sitting here writing emails. Have a wonderful rest of your Friday,” he wrote.