Richard Simmons

High-energy fitness guru Richard Simmons was a television personality who brought a gospel of self-confidence and manageable weight loss to millions through his Emmy-winning television series and countless best-selling videos and books. Overweight and depressed throughout his childhood, he found a new lease on life via his own fitness program.

His approach to exercise, which was equally driven by zaney humor and heartfelt motivation, quickly caught on with national audiences, who made him one of the leading figures in the exercise movement, as well as a pop culture icon. Simmons' track record and sales figures proved him to be one of the most successful figures ever in the business of improving people's health.