Derek Hough Mourns Loss of Former DWTS Coach: ‘Wild Ball of Energy’
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Derek Hough is among the many paying tribute to Richard Simmons, the beloved fitness icon and General Hospital alum who died on July 13, 2024, at age 76.
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The Dancing With the Stars judge got to know Simmons during his first year as a pro back in 2007, when the fitness icon appeared on Season 5 to help coach several different contestants, including Hough’s partner Jennie Garth.
More: Meet the Dancing With the Stars Pros’ Partners in Real Life
In addition to sharing his fond memories of the television personality, Hough also posted a behind-the-scenes video of Simmons serenading him with an impromptu song about his hair. “In 2007 My very 1st season on @dancingwiththestars I had the pleasure of meeting this wild ball of energy,” Hough wrote alongside the hilarious video filmed during rehearsal. “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.”
In the clip, Simmons jokes about Hough’s “perfect hair,” before breaking out into a Broadway-worthy song and dance. “Derek’s got perfect hair,” Simmons sang. “Derek’s got perfect hair and I don’t want you to mess it up!” Fans flooded the comments section of the post and shared their memories of Simmons. “Oh what a sweetheart he was. A pure and gentle soul. May he rest so peacefully. My childhood is so grateful for the love, encouragement and acceptance he demonstrated,” one fan wrote. Another fan added: “I love this! His workout videos were so encouraging! I can only imagine all the lives he reached with his robust personality! ??.” A third fan chimed in, writing: “Awwww lol what a great memory! Captures the essence of Richard to a T.”
Hough also posted the video on his Instagram Story, writing alongside it: “I was blessed with this impromptu song by Richard Simmons. RIP.”
Simmons rose to fame in the late ’70s and early ’80s with his energetic aerobic programs that were catered to all people, regardless of fitness level. A surge of interest in aerobics during the ’80s helped Simmons achieve widespread recognition, especially for his Sweatin’ to the Oldies series, which became one of the decade’s most beloved fitness videos. He went on to appear on several late night shows and game shows, and he even booked a gig on General Hospital. From 1979-82, Simmons recurred as himself on the daytime soap, teaching exercise classes at the Campus Disco, the Community Sports Center and, more than 20 years later, the Nurses Ball.
In his later years, Simmons withdrew from public eye and appeared less frequently on TV. In his final interview with PEOPLE, just two days before his passing, he expressed, “I know people miss me, and you know what? I miss them, too. But I stay connected through phone calls and emails. Occasionally, I do venture out, albeit in disguise.”
His rep, Tom Estey, confirmed his death to Entertainment Weekly, telling the outlet: “The world lost an angel today.” In addition to Hough, several other celebrities have dedicated tributes to the eccentric fitness guru, including Hairspray star Ricki Lake, actor Emerson Collins and fellow workout icon Jane Fonda.
Simmons was also not the only member of the DWTS family to pass away on July 13. On the exact same day, famed actress and Season 10 alum Shannen Doherty died at age 53, following a long battle with cancer. Just one day later, former NFL player and Season 16 contestant Jacoby Jones died at age 40. During this sad time, both past and current cast members of DWTS have honored Simmons, Doherty and Jones with heartfelt tributes.
For more on Dancing With the Stars, check out this gallery on the judges’ real-life partners.
