Story highlights Richard Simmons sues the National Enquirer and Radar Online for libelThe lawsuit alleges the tabloids acted with "calculated malice" in running false stories on Simmons(CNN) Richard Simmons has tried to avoid the limelight as much as possible in the past couple of years -- but now he's back in the spotlight, taking the tabloids to court. Stepping out of self-imposed seclusion, Simmons is suing the National Enquirer and Radar Online for libel and invasion of privacy, claiming the outlets targeted him in a series of "egregious" and "hurtful" stories about his gender identity. American Media, Inc., which represents both the National Enquirer and Radar Online, posted a statement standing behind its reporting. The court filing alleges that Oliveira "has blackmailed, extorted and stalked Simmons for several years with the intention of destroying (Simmons') career and reputation." The lawsuit does not explain the relationship between Simmons and Oliveira, or how they know know each other.

Source: CNN May 09, 2017 03:45 UTC