While we’re talking sports – and this is a very weak segue – the family of Richard Simmons has revealed his cause of death.  Simmons’ brother Lenny released this statement: “The Coroner informed Lenny that Richard’s death was accidental due to complications from recent falls and heart disease as a contributing factor.  The toxicology report was negative other than medication Richard had been prescribed.”

Speaking of gay icons, Liza Minnelli has been the subject of numerous reports for years…even decades.  Her longtime friend, Michael Feinstein, has often been included in these reports – some of which claim Liza wanted to marry the openly gay (and married) musician, or that Feinstein was a Svengali virtually keeping Minnelli hostage.  Despite these stories, Michael has always remained silent – until now.  He took umbrage at a report from Rob Shuter – and gave numerous examples of his erroneous earlier reports, as well as firsthand accounts of his encounters with Shuter.  Rob’s current stories states that Liza’s “close friends” (whoever they are) are concerned that Feinstein is helping her write her autobiography.  They are allegedly worried it will be more about Feinstein than about Minnelli.  Michael says, “Liza asked me to help her with her book and I will do so, and it is only because it was her request that I became involved.  She sure doesn’t need me that’s true, but wanted me to help.  So I will.  She has amazing editors who will assure that it is her story, period.”  Feinstein continues, “The irony is, the reason she is even writing her book is so that her voice will be heard to finally and definitively speak about all the bullshit that people like Rob have been writing, so now she can tell her truth.  Go Liza!”