Richard Simmons, unseen publicly since 2014, maintains his retreat is voluntary. This followed the closure of his fitness studio and sparked numerous rumors, including a 2016 allegation of being held hostage by his housekeeper, which Simmons refuted. A 2017 podcast and documentary further fueled speculation, suggesting knee surgery and depression as reasons for his absence. Simmons, via social media or his representative, has denied all claims. Recently, his rep confirmed Simmons' happiness on his 75th birthday. Simmons' choice reflects a broader trend of celebrities retreating from public view.

Richard Simmons' last public appearance was in December 2013.

Richard Simmons recently turned 75.

Daniel Day-Lewis

Three-time Oscar winner Daniel Day-Lewis has always been selective about public appearances, even taking breaks from acting, like his shoemaking apprenticeship in Italy. He explained his need for time away from the craft as beneficial to his work. After his final film, "Phantom Thread," Day-Lewis officially retired, dividing his time between New York and Ireland with family. A recent sighting in New York marked his first public appearance in six years.

Daniel Day-Lewis's Oscar wins span decades.

Daniel Day-Lewis's recent sighting in NYC.

Gene Hackman

Gene Hackman, a Hollywood legend with a career spanning over six decades and two Oscars, retired from acting in 2004. He cited the stress of the industry as a contributing factor. Hackman now maintains a low profile in Santa Fe, New Mexico, rarely granting interviews. His most recent public appearance was in March 2023.

Gene Hackman's Oscar win for "The French Connection".

Gene Hackman's recent sighting in Santa Fe.

Jack Nicholson

Jack Nicholson, a Hollywood icon with three Oscars and twelve nominations, unofficially retired after his 2010 film "How Do You Know." While he expressed a desire to only work on films with emotional depth, he maintained a public presence through appearances at Lakers games, though these have become less frequent. He was recently seen at playoff games with his son.

Jack Nicholson's Oscar win for "As Good as It Gets".

Jack Nicholson with his son at a Lakers game.

Bridget Fonda

Bridget Fonda, part of the renowned Fonda acting family, stepped away from Hollywood after her last role in 2002. Following a car accident and marriage to composer Danny Elfman, Fonda has embraced life outside the spotlight. Recent sightings at her home and LAX suggest she prefers her life as a "civilian."

Bridget Fonda at her home.

Sly Stone

Sly Stone, the driving force behind Sly and the Family Stone, retreated from public view after the band's success in the '60s and '70s, battling drug addiction and financial troubles. A brief resurgence at the 2006 Grammys didn't lead to a full comeback. Reports of homelessness emerged in 2011, which Stone attributed to contractual disputes. While remaining largely out of the spotlight, he is working on a memoir titled "Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Agin)."

Sly Stone's Grammy performance in 2006.