Richard Simmons finally speaks out: I'm 'just a little under the weather'

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Richard Simmons' manager slams 'hurtful' podcast

Richard Simmons' manager calls podcast intrusive and hurtful

Richard Simmons has released his first statement in more than a year, speaking to fans about his recent hospitalization in a message sent to People magazine.

“Hello to everyone who has shown concern for me and sent their good wishes. You will never know how much it means to me. Aren’t you sick of hearing and reading about me?! LOL Well by now you know that I’m not ‘missing,’ just a little under the weather. I’m sure I will be feeling good and back home in a couple of days,” Simmons stated.

Simmons’ statement referenced the popular podcast, “Missing Richard Simmons,” which was put together by his one-time friend Dan Taberski and explored the fitness superstar’s decision to vanish from public life.

Simmons has not been seen in public since 2014. He last spoke out in March 2016 in a call to the “Today” show.

He addressed reports that he was recently hospitalize for severe indigestion.

“This has reminded me that when you need help you can’t be afraid to reach out and ask for it. We all think we should always be able to solve our problems all by ourselves and sometimes it’s just bigger than we are,” he stated on Wednesday.

“I reached out and I hope you will too. I’m sure there are people in your life who love and care for you and would do anything to help you with the challenges you face. Just knowing you care has already made me feel better. Hope to see you again soon!”