Los Angeles, CA – Richard Simmons has expressed his objections to an upcoming biopic in which Pauly Shore is set to portray him. In a Facebook post, Simmons stated that he had not given permission for the film and urged people not to believe everything they read. The fitness guru, known for his eccentric personality and successful “Sweatin’ to the Oldies” aerobics videos, emphasized that he values a quiet life and appreciates the support of his fans.
While the biopic is in the works, a short film called “The Court Jester” featuring Shore as Simmons will premiere at the Sundance Film Festival and subsequently on YouTube. The biopic is being produced by The Wolper Organization, a subsidiary of Warner Bros. In response to Simmons’ objections, the organization released a statement expressing their respect for his desire for privacy and their intention to produce a movie that honors and celebrates him.
Simmons, who disappeared from public life in 2014, has acknowledged the concerns of his fans and clarified in a 2016 interview that he is not being held hostage but simply prefers to maintain his privacy. Despite not receiving Simmons’ blessing for the role, Shore expressed his excitement about sharing Simmons’ story in the biopic, describing him as a representation of mental health and a source of joy.
Mark Wolper, the head of The Wolper Organization, revealed that the studio has been considering the idea of a Simmons biopic for years. However, it wasn’t until recently, when Shore’s name was proposed as the ideal choice, that the project gained momentum. Serious discussions with a prominent writer are underway to develop the biopic into a dramatic and heartfelt feature reminiscent of “Little Miss Sunshine.”
Simmons’ objection to the film has sparked a debate about the portrayal of public figures in biopics and the impact it can have on their privacy. The studio recognizes Simmons’ private nature and aims to create a movie that recognizes his significant contributions to the world while respecting his need for solitude. As the project progresses, it remains to be seen how Simmons and his fans will respond to the biopic’s portrayal of his life and accomplishments.