Richard Simmons Rep Denies Transgender Rumors After ‘National Enquirer’ Cover Story

Richard Simmons hit the cover of the National Enquirer on Wednesday — alongside a report that he is allegedly transitioning to be a woman. Simmons’ rep Tom Estey has denied the report’s claim.

Richard Simmons Rep Shuts Down Transgender Reports

Simmons appears on the Enquirer cover donning a black wig, lipstick and a dress. The report claims that Simmons has been living as a “softly spoken woman named Fiona” in his Hollywood Hills mansion. Simmons has supposedly undergone two years of secret surgeries, including breast implants and hormone therapy, to complete his transition.

“It’s not true,” Estey told People in response to the report. “He is not transitioning into a woman. He has decided to live quietly the last few years.”

Estey explained that while the fitness star hasn’t been seen in the public eye, he still does good work and will be back when he’s ready.

“He had knee surgery a few years ago and has a bum knee,” Estey said. “He is still on Twitter and Facebook and works behind the scenes continuing to inspire and motivate people to lose weight. When he decides to come back, he will come back.”

In the meantime, Estey believes Simmons deserves privacy — and a break.

“He’s a human being. He was in the public eye for over three decades, but he deserves his privacy,” Estey added. “He should be able to have a private life. He just needed a break. He is still taking care of the people who need his help.”