General Hospital
The Curious Case Of GH Guest Star and Fitness Guru Richard Simmons: His Rep Says He's Not Being Held Against His Will, But "Simply Taking A Break From Public Life"
Courtesy/ABC
Over the weekend after a report surfaced in the New York Daily News entiled, ‘The Haunted Twilight of Richard Simmons,” that cites sources both on and off-the-record, who claim General Hospital guest star and fitness instructor, Richard Simmons is being “held against his will” and is purposely being kept away from friends and family.”
Simmons representive Tom Estey has fired back and told USA Today, that those claims are “ludicrous,” and that Richard “does not want to be in the public eye right now.”
The NY Daily News feature also reported that Simmons stopped returning calls and emails more than two years ago to his friends, and that his behavior seemed unusual. Estey also denied this report and said Simmons ‘mental health is just fine”.
Estey also shared that the “Sweatin’ to the Oldies” fitness favorite is “working behind the scenes to continue to help those millions of people worldwide in need of his assistance and on several projects to be announced soon.”
Mauro Oliveira, Simmons’ former assistant, told the NY Daily News that during his last visit to Simmons’ mansion, the trainer told him they could no longer see each other. Oliveira also claimed that Simmons told him his longtime live-in housekeeper, Teresa Reveles, is now controlling his life.
In 2014, Simmons shut down reports of a depression following a serious knee injury with a statement via his facebook page: ” I am so touched by the outpouring of love and concern I have received today. I have had a tough time dealing with this injury, as it is keeping me from doing what I truly love to do and that is to teach classes around the world.”
GH fans last saw Simmons as part of the series 50th anniversary Nurses’ Ball storyline in 2013. In it, Richard taunted Lucy Coe (Lynn Herring) and was eventually carried out of the ball in a hilarious moment. Richard’s first go round in Port Charles was his recurring role as himself in episodes from 1979-1983.
Even this weekend, Simmons official facebook page has had numerous updates including a post that says: “The only limits you have are the ones you give yourself. Smash through them!”
So, what do you think of the report from the New York Daily News? Is Richard being a recluse, or just taking a break from public life? Are people he knows trying to smear his name? GH fans have always loved Richard’s returns to Port Charles for its nostalgia and quirky fun. Share your thoughts in the comment section below.
The latest ratings are out for the week of October 26-30, 2026 and the big takeaways include: that CBS daytime’s Beyond the Gates was separated by only 23,000 viewers behind third place (of the soaps) General Hospital! For the last several weeks, Beyond the Gates has been closing the gap on this year’s winner for Outstanding Daytime Drama Series, and continuing to best GH in the key demos.
According to the latest Nielsen ratings breakdown from Soap Opera Network, the final week of October brought Beyond the Gates 1.790 million on average tuning-in and the show set a season high in total viewers. Meanwhile, General Hospital hit a new season low! The long-running ABC soap had 1.813 million for the week, and once again the series did not go over the 2 million mark.
Meanwhile, in the key Women 18-49 demo, Beyond the Gates was firmly ahead of GH with a rating share of 0.21, while General Hospital had 0.17 rating share.Then, in the key Women 25-54 demo, Beyond the Gates was once again ahead of the ABC soap with a ratings share for that demo at 0.30 while GH came in with 0.26.
Photo: CBS
MORE BY THE NUMBERS
In addition and comparatively, Beyond the Gates +22,000 viewers week-to-week, and had the largest gains in viewership year-to-year in daytime TV with +267,000 from this in 2025.. However, General Hospital seems to be going in reverse. The show was down -56,000 viewers week-over-week and down -22,000 year-over-year .
BEYOND THE GATES
Let’s take a look at some of the storylines that had people tuning-in to Beyond the Gates during the ratings week:
Hayley (Marquita Goings) attempted a massive shocker regarding her pregnancy and tried to use it to extract money from Bill Hamilton (Timon Kyle Durrett). Although, Bill saw right through her game, he demanded a paternity test, and made it clear he has no intention of raising the child—planning instead to pay her off to take the baby and leave. Meanwhile, Hayley confided her plan to her cousin Randy (Maurice P. Kerry).
Jacob Hawthorne (Jibre Hordges) and Naomi Hamilton (Arielle Prepetit) clashed over Jacob’s ongoing investigation into The Impaler, causing significant strain in their marriage. At the same time, Smitty (Mike Manning) considered taking matters into his own hands—including potentially heading to Mexico for evidence—while Martin Richardson (Brandon Claybon) worried about what comes next.
Photo: ABC
GENERAL HOSPITAL
Over at General Hospital for the ratings period, the story served up included:
Carly (Laura Wright) and Valentin (James Patrick Stuart) teamed up to investigate what really happened to Jack Brennan (Chris McKenna). Later, Danny (Asher Antonyzyn) leads them to Jack’s dead body.
Jude (Wil Traval) dropped a bombshell claim to Alexis (Nancy Lee Grahn); that he is Phoebe’s father, while Brook Lynn (Amanda Setton) and Chase (Josh Swickard) signed their divorce papers.
Then, Danny caught Rocco (Finn Carr) and Scout (Kayden Brenna Tokarski) sharing a kiss, plus the shocking return of Heather Webber (Alley Mills) capped the week.
Now the questions become; without having much promotional synergy in the ABC day-part to draw more eyeballs it is not helping but hurting General Hospital. It seems Beyond the Gates is also a benefactor of a one-two-three punch of CBS soaps (Y&R, B&B and BTG) and promotion.
However, that still doesn’t take away the fact that Beyond the Gates is close to besting GH in all ratings category as they go head-to-head in some markets across the country.
So, are you excited to see Beyond the Gates climb in the ratings? Are you concerned for General Hospital? Do you think they can stave off Beyond the Gates in total viewers or will the upstart soap overtake them in the next ratings report? Share your thoughts in the comment section.
Antonio Sabáto Jr., the former Jagger Cates of General Hospital and GH: Night Shift, and the former Dante Damiano of The Bold and the Beautiful has issued his first public statement since the incident involving his son, Jack’s arrest in Alaska for a fatal hit-and-run.
Jack is the son of Sabáto Jr. and Oscar-nominated actress Virginia Madsen, and according to court documents obtained by KTUU Jack, was allegedly driving a white Chevy Tahoe when he hit and killed Carl Simmonds, 42, near an intersection in Anchorage around 5:35 a.m. on Monday, November 9.
The reports indicated that Jack fled the scene — but later decided to called the cops to say he hit “something” that “suddenly appeared in the road” while he was “doing late-night DoorDashing.”
Photo: NBC
Now, Antonio has taken to his Instagram breaking his silence on the situation, sharing, “At this time, my family and I are navigating an extremely sensitive and deeply personal matter.”
He added, “As a father, my love for my children remains unconditional, and my priority is the well-being of my family. We ask that the public and members of the media honor our privacy during this difficult time and keep us all in your thoughts and prayers.”
The soap alum concluded, “I also wish to extend my heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones of the gentleman who tragically lost his life. My thoughts and prayers are with them as well. We sincerely appreciate your compassion, understanding, and respect for the privacy of everyone affected.”
Jack Sabáto was arraigned in court on Tuesday, November 10 with bail set at $5,000, and a no-driving order and the potential of $5,000 penalty fees if he fails to attend future court appearances.
Antonio is the father to Jack, 34, daughter, Mina Sabato, 24 and son, Antonio Sabáto III, 15.
This is a developing story. You can check out Antonio’s official statement below.
So, let us know your thoughts on this tragic hit-and-run, which claimed the life of another man, and Antonio’s statement, via the comment section below.
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Sonny (Maurice Benard) and Ava’s (Maura West) daughter Avery looks quite different, starting on today’s November 9 episode of General Hospital. That’s because GH has made Avery into a full-blown teenager and the role is now being played by actress Alya Bullington.
In her debut, the Tennessee native was thrown into the deep soap waters with Daytime Emmy winners, Maurice Benard and Eden McCoy (Josslyn). Bullington weighed-in to TV Insider about her first scene which featured Avery overhearing a fight between Sonny and Josslyn.
She explained “It was something I have never done before, I did not have a lot of experience with the screaming and the crying stuff, but I got my first script, and I was like, ‘OK, this is a huge opportunity to learn so much about how that stuff works and to become this character that I have never even tried playing before.’”
Photo: ABC
THE TEENAGED VERSION OF AVERY WILL HAVE A LOT TO CONTEND WITH
Speaking of working with McCoy, Bullington shared, “She’s incredible. I remember her just laughing and making jokes on set, and then the minute that they started taping, she just locked in and she cried immediately, and my first thought was, ‘I want to be able to do that.’
The soap opera newcomer added, “I think she just inspired me so much because she is so great and she can just lock into whatever character she wants to in the moment.”
The character of Avery was born back in 2014, but as recently as the October 8 episode of General Hospital, the character was suddenly referred to as a teenager. This is the second young female character in recent months to be aged up following the casting of Kayden Brenna Tokarski as Scout Cain.
As for her take on Avery and what’s ahead, Alya said,“She’s emotional, and she’s curious, and she’s a really fun person to play because so much stuff is happening in her life. I think she’s kind of confused about what’s happening and what to believe.”
So, what do you think about General Hospital making Avery a teenager? Are you excited to see the conflict between Sonny, Ava and Avery now that they have aged up the character? Share your thoughts and welcome Alya to GH via the comment section below.
‘Beyond the Gates’ Emmy Winner Ambyr Michelle Wants to Compete on ‘Dancing with the Stars’: ‘Pick Me’ (Exclusive)
THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL: Katie Kicks Bill to the Curb … for Now
RATINGS: ‘Beyond the Gates’ Inches Closer to ‘General Hospital’ in Total Viewers
B&B’s Sydney Bullock Weighs In on Future of Dylan and Will: ‘I Think She Can Hold on to Him for Awhile’ (Exclusive)
Antonio Sabáto Jr. Breaks Silence on His Son’s Arrest for Fatal Hit-and-Run
Y&R’s New Head Writers Share Vision for Genoa City: Contemporary Homage to Bill Bell, Mixing Heightened Escapism and Grounded Reality
THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS Preview: Episodes From New Co-Head Writers, Jamey Giddens and Dan O’Connor, Begin to Air
‘General Hospital’ Casts Ayla Bullington as the New Avery Jerome-Corinthos
‘Days of our Lives’ Celebrates 61st Anniversary: EP Ken Corday Teases New Character’s Arrival in Spring 2027
‘Days of our Lives’ Kyle Pryor Debuts as Dominic Marino and Says of Alleged TV Mom, “Deidre Hall is the Absolute OG, Amazing” (Exclusive)
‘Beyond the Gates’ Emmy Winner Ambyr Michelle Wants to Compete on ‘Dancing with the Stars’: ‘Pick Me’ (Exclusive)
THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL: Katie Kicks Bill to the Curb … for Now
B&B’s Sydney Bullock Weighs In on Future of Dylan and Will: ‘I Think She Can Hold on to Him for Awhile’ (Exclusive)
‘Days of our Lives’ Veteran James Reynolds Reveals Parkinson’s Diagnosis
Y&R’s Matt Cohen Talks Role as Compassionate Zookeeper in Rom-Com ‘Christmas at the Zoo’
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recluse
Richard was so roundly rediculed during is last appearance on GH (during the Nurses’ Ball) that I guess the pain simply sent him into reclusion. His silence and absence from public view is certainly is very understandable. I feel much compassion for Richard who was a big part of GH in its heyday with his exercise classes deserves to be treated with much more respect. He has shared himself generously for many years. I say give him his time and let him choose whether or not he ever wants to come out and be cannabalized by the fickle public again. Rest, Richard; you’ver earned it. My prayers are with you.
Is that really him on facebook or someone else…i say recluse.
I believe every word printed in the New York Times. How could someone so media hungry suddenly just stop appearing with the meager excuse of “i just don’t want to be in the public eye right now”. That was 2 years ago. Something is up. Look at the history of other Hollywood “recluses”. There was something wrong. Mickey Rooney most recently. Howard Hughes. And a few others. It is not “normal” for this to be happening. Especially with someone who was so blatantly public. His closest friends are not just saying it for no reason. I can think of another recluse who ended up dying in a mysterious fashion and that was Doris Duke. I think that any one who knows Mr Simmons closely and personally should give up until they see him alone and are able to investigate his ability to care for himself without the presence of his brother, house staff and agents who only want to keep the peace. I pray for this man. He is not a favorite of mine by any stretch BUT he does not deserve to be held back and treated in this manner. If they have nothing to hide, then let his friends come by and see him without his “staff” present.
Brian Wilson was controlled by his psychiatrist for years! I hope Richard is of sound mind. He might just be burnt out and tired of the circus! I wish him well and hope that he returns to GH! Is there a NB for 2016?
I laud this man… for his steadfast be
at times i thought it was a circus…as he was poked prodded and made light
because he was so far ahead of his time?
was he gay
was he asexual
was he that endearing
he’s Richard Simmons
created in his own image
his own image
imagination run amok
imagination wild
imagination steered
did that leg injury PARK
he simply Parked his life on his own
I hope this
Richard Simmons reigned
He is an unselfish man in a VERY selfish business!
Really odd. Just read about this in the news yesterday and it doesn’t fit the Richard persona we have all grown to expect. Time will tell I guess, but I hope he’s alright.
Just head an exclusive interview on the Today Show with Richard. He’s jus saying he wanted to take time out for himself, he was tired of the travel, has been taking walks, etc. but when he’s ready he’ll come back stronger.
Isn’t taking a break from public life the same thing as being reclusive, therefore making on a recluse?
There’s nothing from with being a recluse. I tend to be one from time to time.
hi..
Being a ”reclusive” is no outside contact..
I doubt he would be tweeting and facebooking, if a reclusive..
hmm ok.. someone else could be tweeting and facebooking as Richard, a reclusive would not put himself out to the public in any way..
Hey, su,
You’re lucky you don’t have to work at staying lean. Neither do I, as some of us are naturally slim, albeit I never had a big appetite.
However, the point of a work-out is to maintain a healthy body through exercise….you know, a toned body, cardio and all that is necessary to stay fit.
I remember Richard Simmons as a little girl. My Au Pair/Nanny had these videos of Richard and his ‘dancers’…..I would dance along with her. So, I remember him well.
I had no idea he periodically appeared on GH until I saw him at at the Nurses’ Ball with Lucy.
He made an announcement on air, the other day, saying he was fine and needed rest.
I’m hoping he just needs a break. The guy has been in front of the world for probably 40 years now! Other than mind control [Helena] the ONLY other thing that may have happened is that he gained a lot of weight?
Hey, Timmm,
Would it be possible for Richard to avoid the public eye because he has gained weight? I believe the reason he became a health nut was because of his heavy stature, and, therefore was obsessed with maintaining a healthy, fit body.
Perhaps he was bed-ridden after his injury and gained his weight back. …..Too embarrassed to face people? He shouldn’t be. Poor guy. He probably feels he let his fans down? Only speculation, Timmm.
So much emphasis is put on weight and looks in our society, I am glad about all the hoopla in changing the ‘image’ of what someone is supposed to look like. Look at the new models gracing the cover of magazines, lately. Good for them.
I like Richard, but, I had not even given not seeing him a second thought….well, I assumed he had retired.
My apologies for this post which did not make sense.I meant to way there is nothing wrong with being a recluse. And I wrote “on” when I meant to write one.
IN any case, hope Richard is doing okay. Let us give him the space he needs.
Yes, I agree.
absolutely
I nest in my own home… for me
I can’t take on celebrity … that’s a whole ‘nother arena that’s outside my scope
spotlight… camera action… woah! I like my mind
I laud Richard Simmons… because he walked the walk…
even I don’t know that he’s like me… gay
I thought… at times.. this reflects
I grew and love keeping myself company
I love my husband Eileen Davidson !
I respect you Richard
rest take care and celebrate
I know very little about the man,, saw him in GH, once and dont recall where else..
He is a dancing exercise guy, yes..
I have never been overweight I maintain a lean weight so never had need for weight loss and am not familiar with all that Richard does.. He appeared to be vibrant.
Whatever his personal status is, I hope he never returns to GH.
Knock that off who knows what is really happening,,, he may be a bit annoying but he’s always a hoot on GH
I feel the same about Sabrrrrina!
Awwww! Why? He seems like such a nice perdon.
I hope Richard is OK, rumor is he gained lots of weight. If that is true, he is very depressed and won’t go out in public. If he does TMZ will get info and pictures of Richard. I enjoyed Richard on GH, with Lucy. They were funny.
In my mind he will always be the guy teaching “exercise class” at the Campus Disco where Luke and Laura worked. I was only 6 years old at the time but I remember those scenes well. I hope he is ok.
The man who normally has an outgoing,energetic personality sufferers a debilitating knee injury that prevents him from doing what he loves most.
Hmm…..one could naturally assume that would have an effect on him,and he may very well be taking a break from the public eye.
That being said – if he is in a diminished capacity ,say because he suffered a stroke or something I would do more investigating as there are unscrupulous people out there that will take advantage of the vulnerable.
I just heard… some one… character… herald.. they are not going to get toxic
let toxicity become them
fight the good fight…
is Richard simmons strong enough… I certainly do think… his mindset .. for all the endeavor and cause celeb he’s mined
is that fragile…
debilitating is an altogether another outset
My best to this man
something not right, where is his family.
I agree luisa..if I said I was being held hostage my posse would be a gang of nieces and nephews with my brother leading the brigade. .no wilting tulips here lol
I hope he is okay and just wants some Richard time! I love the guy. He has helped so many people with their lives. His appearances on Howard Stern are legendary! I wish he would come back on GH as a rehab specialist and not as himself. He can get Kiki to walk again. OMG, him and Roger Howarth in the same scenes together would be priceless!
I love Richard Simmons. He is a kind and caring man who has helped millions of people over the years lose weight and get back into healthy living. I loved him in General Hospital and would love to see him come back. I think after he hurt his knee he couldn’t do the things he use to do and just wanted time away from the public but for someone who spent most of his life telling people to get going on exercise and don’t let anything stand in your way, he needs to practice what he preaches and come out in public if for no other reason than to show his fans who are worried about him he’s ok.
he catapulted a whole ‘nother mindset to the forefront
a be all you can be
infectious for some… a ray of care… woah I don’t give a damn either… let’s go
he moved
I hope he is ok and knows that people are sending positive thoughts his way. He was a colorful personality that brought a lot of positivity into other peoples lives.
Respect and admire Richard. Hoping he is OK.
Well, this is from the New York Daily News, which certainly has a reputation for exaggeration, sensationalization, and building something out of nothing. Let’s hope that’s the case here.
That said, we’ve certainly heard of enough cases like this—with the wrong people alienating some rich/famous individual from everyone so as to control the bank accounts–to warrant concern. I do hope that he’s all right and nothing’s amiss.
richard was interviewed on the today show by phone today – i still believe he is being held against his will…………….something just doesn’t feel right……….
the richard simmons we all know & love would not go into some sort of hiding – he would have at least did a farewell tour around the country or gave his fans a heads up………….
if everything is okay he needs to make an appearance not a phone call………….jmo
naww the guy is fine he is being eccentric ..
most likely– when people of fame lose their celebrity appearance, bodies that made them a celebrity, they give up and hide..
I agree elm1951 – if everything was ok, he would be interviewed in person. Very fishy. It reminds me of the weird stuff that happened with Brittany Murphy’s death.
Oh, my gosh, Abruzzfan. I remember the Brittany Murphy’s tragedy. That story did have a suspicious ring to it; compounded with the fact that her husband died in the same manner?….not too long after her.
I wouldn’t take anything from New York Daily News seriously. They seem worse than The National Enquirer.