Fitness and weight-loss guru Richard Simmons has refuted a tabloid story from earlier this month claiming he has had sex-change surgery.
“Some tabloids have recently falsely reported that I am transitioning,” the 67-year-old Simmons posted on Facebook late Tuesday, referring to a National Enquirer article that said he has had hormone treatments and breast implants over the past two years. “In response, I feel compelled to set the record straight and refute these lies. Although I am not transitioning, I have and always will be supportive of those who are going through their journey,” he said.
His spokesman, Tom Estey, had said on June 8 that the tabloid’s story is “not true, a complete fabrication, and we will not dignify the Enquirer with any type of response” such as a lawsuit.
Simmons, moreover, expressed solidarity with the victims of the gay-nightclub massacre in Orlando, Florida, early Sunday.
“We should not lose focus on showing love, strength and compassion to all of the LGBT community during these tragic times,” Simmons said. “My broken heart and healing thoughts are with the people of Orlando and all other victims of prejudice, bigotry and hate.”
