Richard Simmons’ pal recalls time before disappearance: ‘We had so much fun’

Health teacher Denise Austin nonetheless loves her outdated pal Richard Simmons.

The 65-year-old train guru opened up about her friendship with the 74-year-old character — who seemingly vanished in 2014.

Simmons grew to become reclusive and out of the blue stopped instructing at his health studio nearly a decade in the past.

The guy health gurus have been buddies since they began their train careers within the Eighties.

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Austin appeared again on her relationship with the aerobics instructor and the way they “had a lot enjoyable collectively” by the years.

“He would hug me each single time we ever received collectively. He was so variety and so candy — simply the best man. And he liked my daughters who nonetheless all the time ask about him,” Austin just lately advised Fox Information.

“I am keen on him,” the mom of two added. “It was enjoyable to begin a profession across the identical time he did. And , I’ve executed it now for 40 years. He was a giant a part of it.”

Denise Austin and Richard Simmons in 2011.

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Austin — in addition to Simmons’ pal Suzanne Somers — have been featured within the documentary “TMZ Investigates: What Actually Occurred to Richard Simmons” this previous August.

The particular did a deep dive into Simmons’ entry into the highlight and his sudden exit.

Following the doc’s launch, the “Sweatin’ to the Oldies” star advised The Submit by way of his spokesperson that he’s “dwelling the life he has chosen.”

“Richard is eternally grateful for the continual outpouring of affection and gratitude he has obtained from throughout the globe,” his rep advised The Submit on Aug. 26. “He's glad, wholesome and dwelling the life he has chosen to dwell.”

The “By no means Say Eating regimen” cookbook writer additionally took to Fb following the documentary’s premiere to thank his followers for his or her love and help.

Simmons retreated from public life in 2014 and hasn’t been seen since.

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Austin went on to remember her glad recollections with Simmons: “It was actually enjoyable to be round him. We simply liked motivating folks. That’s what makes him shine. We each need to feed folks our optimistic power. And I do it as a result of everybody wants it.”

“Everybody desires to have somebody who's encouraging and uplifting,” she continued. “Somebody who will inform you, ‘You’ve received this, you are able to do it. I promise you that once you’re executed, you’ll really feel so significantly better.’”