Richard Simmons hospitalized after suffering severe indigestion

Richard Simmons was hospitalized on Monday after suffering severe indigestion, according to his manager Michael Catalano.

"After a few days of battling severe indigestion and discomfort while eating, we agreed it was best for him to seek treatment," Catalano told ABC News. "He's already feeling better and is expected to make a full recovery."

The fitness guru's sudden hospitalization marks the first time he's left the confines of his California estate in three years. Simmons whereabouts has recently made headlines after the release of a podcast "Missing Richard Simmons." The series was created by Dan Taberski, a Slimmons Studio attendee and close friend, who wanted to dig deeper into the fitness star's self-imposed exile.

In the podcast, Simmons' longtime friend, Mauro Oliveira, alleged that he was being held hostage by his housekeeper. Richard's rep Tom Estey, staunchly denied the allegations as a "complete load of crap."

A welfare check in early March at his home by the Los Angeles Police Department, however, told a different story. An official revealed Simmons is "doing fine" and just "wants privacy."

The "Sweatin' With the Oldies" star also recently hinted at making a public comeback with his latest business move.

Prominent Brand + Talent, the management company co-founded by Simmons' longtime manager, announced in early April that it's secured exclusive worldwide rights to represent the fitness icon for merchandising, licensing and endorsements. New products are being designed to build on his line of current merchandise, which have been sold at Wal-Mart, QVC and more.