Richard Simmons’ family is currently locked in a battle with his housekeeper. The family has accused Teresa Reveles, who worked for Simmons for over three decades, of greed. This came after Reveles wrote a petition requesting to return to her status as a co-trustee for the late fitness guru’s estate.
On Wednesday, September 25, 2024, Reveles accused the family of tricking her into forfeiting her status after Simmons died. Reveles, who was Simmons’ friend for 36 years, accused Simmons’ brother Lenny and his wife Cathy. Lenny is the other co-trustee and beneficiary of the estate.
According to court documents, Reveles said Lenny and his wife took advantage of her grief. She alleged that in the thick of emotions, they convinced her to turn down the position of co-trustee.
She said that just after they had all seen Simmons’ body, Lenny and his wife brought her into Simmons’ lawyer’s office. Reveles also said she didn’t know what she was signing when she approved for her name to be taken off as a co-trustee.
ALSO READ: ME Report Reveals Richard Simmons Died by Accident: “The World Has Truly Lost an Angel.”
But the family of Richard Simmons has kicked back against the claims. They did so through a statement released by the family’s spokesperson, Tom Estey. In the statement, they accused Reveles of trying to profit from the death of Richard Simmons. They have also accused her of soiling Simmons’ legacy with her agitations.
“Richard’s message was always one of joy and positivity. He would be heartbroken to learn of Teresa’s greed and insulted that she would diminish their three decades of supposed friendship in such a public way. Her actions threaten to harm Richard’s incredible legacy, which we are working hard to preserve,” said the statement.
The Family Accused the Housekeeper of Ingratitude
The statement also insinuated that Reveles was ungrateful for the goodwill she had received from Simmons. “Richard took impeccable care of Teresa and made sure even after his passing that she was well taken care of,” the statement read.
“She is a significant beneficiary of his will. She made an informed decision to decline to serve as co-trustee of the estate, which does not affect her status as a beneficiary at all.”
“Even now, two months after he died, she is staying in his house, even though she has her own residence, and she has attempted to charge the estate for her living expenses. We also have learned that a documentary has been pitched to Netflix that identifies Teresa as the principal source and contributor and that we believe will be hurtful to Richard’s legacy.”
Reveles isn’t just asking for a reinstatement. She has also asked the court to stop Lenny from benefiting from Simmons’ image and likeness. In addition, she wants the court to stop Lenny from selling off any of Simmons’ property until the court pronounces its decision.
What Was Richard Simmons’ Net Worth?
Indeed, Richard Simmons amassed considerable wealth. By the time he passed away on July 13, 2024, Richard Simmons net worth was $20 million. This shouldn’t be a surprise considering the impact he made in the health and fitness world since the 70s.
He also continued to make waves when he opened his exercise studio in California. Simmons released a number of aerobics videos, authored books, and appeared on news programs, movies, and game shows. He later started his talk show, which became a big hit.
Meet Richard Simmons’ Surviving Family
Richard Simmons’ family is small. He was survived by his brother, Leonard Simmons (Lenny), and his wife, Cathy. The late fitness guru was never married and lived a private life in his Beverly Hills residence. The only other occupants of the house were his two house staff and three Dalmatian dogs.
Teresa Reveles started working as Simmons’ housekeeper in 1987. They became good friends and were so close that Simmons trusted her to handle his estate. At a time just after Simmons’ death, Lenny praised Reveles’ service, noting that she “was extremely loyal and trustworthy.”
What Was Richard Simmons’ Cause of Death
According to authorities, Richard Simmons died on July 13, 2024, after he slipped and fell in his bathroom. Richard Simmons’ cause of death was traumatic injuries he suffered from the fall. Reports also state that his heart disease, which he was battling with at the time, also contributed.
Simmons fell on the evening of his birthday and resisted suggestions from Reveles to seek medical attention. He, however, assured her that he would go the following day. Unfortunately, by the time Reveles checked back on him the next day at 10 a.m., she found him dead on the floor.
ALSO READ: Disney Backs Down from Fighting Widower’s Wrongful Death Lawsuit
How Old Was Simmons When He Died?
Richard Simmons’ age was 76 when he died. He died a day after his 76th birthday. Before the celebration, he had talked about blowing out a candle or two at the party. “But the candle will probably be on a zucchini,” he joked to reporters. “You know, I’m a vegetarian.”
On how he felt going into his birthday, Simmons said, “I feel good! I am grateful that I’m here, that I am alive for another day,” he said. He concluded, “I’ll spend my birthday doing what I do every day, which is to help people.”
You Might Also Like:
Rock Climber From Wisconsin Dies in Devils Tower Fall
Maryland Files Lawsuit Over Francis Scott Key Bridge Disaster
Everything We Know About Donald Trump’s Wives
Sean “Diddy” Comb’s Lawyer Discredits Kim Porter’s Alleged Book
P Diddy and Kim Porter’s Children Clamp Down on Claims Their Mother Wrote a Book Before Her Demise
