The Secret Behind Richard Simmons: Stream ABC Special Free Online
The Mystery of Richard Simmons
In 2014, the fitness world was thrown into confusion when Richard Simmons, a beloved figure known for his high-energy workouts and motivational spirit, suddenly vanished from the public eye. Friends and journalists attempted to reach out to him, but all efforts were met with silence. This led to rumors that the famously single star was being held against his will by his manager and family, although Simmons later denied these claims in a phone interview with the Today show.
Despite his disappearance, Simmons' life took a mysterious turn when he was hospitalized, and his Beverly Hills exercise studio closed shortly after. His story continued to intrigue fans and media alike, especially as he passed away in 2024 due to "complications from recent falls and heart diseases," according to the Los Angeles Coroner's office. However, many questions remain about how the Hollywood icon spent his final years, and why he seemed to be alone despite his widespread popularity.
A New Special Sheds Light on Richard Simmons
This week, Richard Simmons' life and career are once again in the spotlight with a new ABC special hosted by Diane Sawyer titled The Mystery of Richard Simmons: A Diane Sawyer Special. The hour-long broadcast will air at 9 p.m. on Tuesday, May 12, on ABC. Fans can also stream it online through various platforms including DirecTV, Fubo, Sling, and Hulu + Live TV.
How to Watch the Special
For those who want to watch the special on TV, tuning in through a local ABC affiliate is an option. For those without cable, there are several ways to stream the program live online:
- DIRECTV: Offers a live streaming service that includes ABC in its MyNews Genre Pack. The package costs $39.99/month and provides access to over 20 channels. A risk-free five-day free trial is available for those who want to test it out before committing.
- Fubo: Provides a live ABC feed as part of its Sports + News package, which is regularly priced at $55.99/month. New signups receive a $10 discount. Fubo also offers a free trial to stream the special for free.
- Sling: Allows viewers to stream ABC online in select markets through its Sling Select package, which offers 10+ live TV channels and thousands of on-demand titles. However, Sling does not offer a free trial at this time.
- Hulu + Live TV: Includes ABC as part of its more than 100 live television channels. The service costs $89.99/month after a three-day free trial. Viewers can also watch the special on-demand beginning Wednesday (May 13) on the regular Hulu platform and on Disney+.
What the Special Covers
The special is described as a "joyful and revealing portrait of an American superstar." It highlights Simmons' boundless energy and signature warmth, which helped him build one of the most enduring fitness empires in American culture. The show also delves into what happened when Simmons abruptly retreated into seclusion, sparking years of speculation about his whereabouts and well-being.
According to ABC, Simmons had been "quietly planning a return," even reaching out to Sawyer directly, presumably to share his story. However, the story took a bizarre turn with news of his sudden and mysterious death.
The special features archival footage and interviews with Simmons' friends and family, including his older brother, who extended an invitation to Sawyer and her team to enter Richard's home and explore the world he had kept hidden for so long.
Final Thoughts
As the special aims to unravel the truth behind Simmons' disappearance and shed light on the circumstances surrounding his death, it offers a poignant look at the life, legacy, and enduring intrigue of this American icon. Whether you're a longtime fan or simply curious about the man behind the legend, The Mystery of Richard Simmons: A Diane Sawyer Special promises to deliver an insightful and emotional journey through his life.
