Growing steadily isolated since undergoing surgery on his right knee in 2010, fitness icon and gregarious celebrity Richard Simmons has finally addressed the growing concerns for his health and wellbeing in a phone interview with Savannah Guthrie of Today on Sunday.

In response to rumors that personal staff such as his longtime housekeeper, Teresa Reveles, had taken control of his affairs and contact with family and friends, Simmons assured everyone that Reveles, who has worked for him for three decades, had done no such thing. Instead, he admitted that the twosome shared a relationship that was “almost like (a) married couple.”

Richard Simmons also addressed his persistent knee issues (he is finding that his left knee is now problematic) as spurring his decision to maintain a quieter life. He said that “right now I just want to sort of take care of me.” He admitted that years of teaching exercise classes and traveling have “taken its toll,” and that the solitude was not a rash decision but one to preserve his health.

When Guthrie asked about the current state of his health, Simmons replied that he is keeping active by walking and getting out in the fresh air in addition to using his personal gym. He still drives himself around and is simply “enjoying time by himself.”

At 67 years old, if Richard Simmons wants to take a Garbo break (either temporary or permanent) to recharge and reassess, he’s more than earned it – as long as the people he does include in his life have his best interests at heart. That being said, it was refreshing to hear from him, and it’s got us thinking about pulling out our old Sweating With The Oldies tapes for a good workout!

What do you think about Richard Simmons’ latest interview? Do you think that it will dispel the rumors surrounding his quieter life, or will Hollywood continue to look closer for more information? Weigh in below!