Beloved but famously eccentric fitness icon Richard Simmons lived largely out of the public eye for years before his death in 2024. Now, a startling glimpse into his intensely private world is emerging — and it’s far stranger than fans ever imagined.
More than 300 eerie, long-eared elves, baby trolls, and hobbit-like dolls were discovered inside Simmons’ Hollywood Hills home. The bizarre collection, which many believe kept him company during his decade-long disappearance from public life, recently sold for more than $170,000 at auction — just a year and a half after his death at age 76.
The dolls were sold by Theriault’s, a prestigious auction house specializing in rare and artistic dolls, during a December 6 sale. The auction unfolded as part of the unraveling of Simmons’ estimated $20 million estate, which has since exploded into a bitter legal feud.
At the center of the battle: Simmons’ older brother, Leonard “Lenny” Simmons, and Richard’s longtime housekeeper and caretaker, Teresa Reveles Muro. The two are locked in a court fight over the late star’s $6.9 million home and roughly $1 million worth of allegedly missing jewelry and memorabilia.
Despite the hostility between the two sides, there appeared to be little hesitation when it came to unloading the 326 unsettling dolls — items some insiders say were among Richard’s closest companions after he vanished from the spotlight in 2014.
According to reports, Simmons didn’t just collect the dolls — he cherished them. He was said to be an early supporter of the National Institute of American Doll Artists and maintained personal friendships with several dollmakers. To him, the figures were more than decorations.
A recent Dolls Magazine feature described the collection as deeply symbolic, noting Simmons often referred to himself as a “court jester.” The dolls, displayed individually throughout his home, were arranged more like a museum exhibit than a toy collection — each one carefully positioned to highlight the artist’s vision.
“The doll was the perfect symbol for Simmons,” the article stated, emphasizing how the whimsical yet haunting figures reflected both his playful persona and his inner solitude.
Theriault’s echoed that sentiment, explaining that the pieces Simmons held closest were those tied to personal memories. According to his family, it was his wish that these works eventually be shared with others.
The auction house also described Simmons as a passionate ambassador for art dolls, comparing his advocacy for the form to his lifelong mission promoting health and fitness.
The top-selling item from the collection was a Caricature Doll of a Feather Burlesque Dancer by artist Van Craig, which fetched $5,250. A Princess Lenore fantasy doll by Shelley Thornton followed closely behind, selling for $2,700.
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