TMZ is breaking the sad, sad news that Richard Simmons‘ legendary Beverly Hills exercise studio, Slimmons, is closing its doors forever on November 19.

The reclusive Richard hasn’t been seen in public for more than 2 1/2 years, and it eventually took a fatal toll on his studio, where he was once a fixture. Simmons simply disappeared.

Richard has said that he simply wants a life out of the spotlight after battling knee problems a few years back, although many of his former friends say something more nefarious is afoot.

TMZ broke numerous stories about Richard over the last 2 years, including concerns he was being held against his will. The LAPD did a welfare check in January 2015 and found he was fine.

Simmons was hospitalized June 3rd, after his housekeeper called 911 and told the dispatcher he was exhibiting bizarre behavior. Simmons later said it was simply a case of dehydration.

Regardless, the closing of his beloved studio is a sad blow to his many devoted friends, fans, and clients. Here’s wishing him all the best, I hope he knows how beloved he is.

(Bottom photos: Pacific  Coast News)