Richard Simmons Speaks Out to Fans after Insisting He’s Not Being Held Hostage

After calling into the “Today” show on Monday morning, Richard Simmons showed some appreciation for his fans, who have worried about his whereabouts — he hasn't been seen in public in two years.

On the show, Simmons assured, "No one is holding me in my house as a hostage. I do what I want to do as I've always done."He continued, "I've taught, like, thousands and thousands of classes and, you know, right now I just want to sort of just take care of me. I just really don't want to do anything. I just don't want to be traveling anymore. It certainly has taken its toll on me. You haven't seen the last of me. I'll come back and I'll come back strong."

Following the call, Simmons told his fans on Facebook, "The support and love I have felt these past few days can only be described as overwhelming. This page has allowed me to both stay in touch with my amazing fans as well as take the private time I want and need for myself right now. But I'm not going anywhere. So thank you all SO MUCH for following, caring, commenting and, most importantly, still smiling.”