The former housekeeper of fitness icon Richard Simmons, Teresa Reveles, has opened up about their unique relationship in her first television interview. This appearance comes nearly a year after Simmons passed away on July 13, 2024, a day after his 76th birthday. Reveles, who had been associated with Simmons since 1988, addressed longstanding rumors and misconceptions about their connection during her conversation with NBC News’ Liz Kreutz, which aired on July 11.
Reveles emphasized that the public never fully understood her role in Simmons’ life, stating, “I never talk to anybody. Nobody knows my voice, or who I am, or what I did for Richard.” She dismissed any claims that she had held Simmons against his will, humorously suggesting, “No, I think he kidnapped me.” Their relationship, characterized by deep affection, was misinterpreted by many over the years.
Living together for decades, Reveles described Simmons as “really like a brother, or he was like my father, my friend, my boyfriend,” adding, “My everything.” When probed about whether they were romantic partners, she clarified, “No,” but acknowledged the depth of their bond. Reveles mentioned that public speculation did not trouble her, insisting, “It’s their problem, you know? We were very happy. And the last ten years were the most happy years.”
Simmons, known for his vibrant personality and fitness programs, never openly discussed his sexual orientation. Reveles stated that such matters were not for her to disclose, saying, “That answer is for Richard, not for me.” When asked if she knew of any romantic partners in Simmons’ life, she humorously responded, “Me,” reinforcing that while their relationship was not sexual, it was filled with affection, as he frequently kissed her.
Their relationship deepened during Reveles’ battle with stomach cancer in 2023. She revealed that Simmons had written her hundreds of letters, expressing his care and concern during her illness. Reveles reflected on Simmons’ awareness of aging, noting he “was not happy that he was getting old.” He wished for people to remember him as he once was—“full of life.”
Tragically, Reveles was the one who discovered Simmons after his death. “I went to his bedroom and I found him dead. And that was a crazy, sad day,” she shared. Despite the sadness of his passing, she conveyed that Simmons had lived a happy life, stating, “Oh, very happy. Very, very happy. I never saw Richard, in 36 years, unhappy, or mean, or upset.”
As the public continues to mourn the loss of a beloved figure, Reveles’ reflections provide a glimpse into the intimate and complex relationship she shared with Richard Simmons.
