Following the publication of this article, Josh Seiter confirmed in a video that he’s alive after an Instagram hoax on his verified account.
The Bachelorette star Josh Seiter has died aged 36, a statement has announced.
In a message released on the late star’s verified Instagram page, his loved ones expressed their devastation over their ‘unexpected’ loss.
‘It is with an extremely heavy heart that we share the tragic news of Joshua’s unexpected passing,’ they wrote.
‘As all who knew him can attest, Joshua was an incredibly bright light in an increasingly dim world. His fearless voice and indomitable spirit helped thousands of people in their darkest moments feel just a little less alone.’
They continued: ‘Although our heartache at Joshua’s passing pains us beyond measure, we find comfort in knowing that he is finally at peace. We hope and pray that his spirit can continue to live on in the pictures and words on this page, which we will leave up for the time being.
‘While we do that, we would kindly ask for privacy as we grieve. For anybody who is experiencing a mental health crisis and needs help, the 988 SMS Lifeline provides 24/7 free and confidential support for people in distress, as well as prevention and crisis resources.’
Seiter starred as a contestant on The Bachelorette during its 11th season in 2015, when the show featured two Bachelorettes during its opening episode for the first time. He was described as a law student and an exotic dancer at the time.
He was eliminated in week one alongside five other men before Shawn Booth was crowned the winner alongside the Bachelorette Kaitlyn Bristowe.
Earlier this year, Seiter opened up about his sexuality in an interview, saying that he identified as pansexual and revealing that he had a boyfriend.
‘I don’t like labels and I don’t like being put into tiny boxes or categories. I would say I identify as Pansexual. I love everybody equally regardless of gender,’ he told TV Shows Ace.
‘And I can exclusively reveal to TV Shows Ace that I am seeing a guy now and things are going really well. I’ve had a lot of disastrous relationships with women lately and I am excited to finally be in a healthy relationship.’
RuPaul’s Drag Race star Monica Beverly Hillz, who was close to Seiter, paid tribute to him on Instagram, sharing a selfie of them together in which she was seen kissing him on the cheek.
‘RIP my honey,’ she wrote in the caption.
Several other Drag Race stars shared their condolences, including Ongina who wrote: ‘I’m so sorry babes. Sending you so much love.’
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‘Praying for you, sorry for your loss,’ said Monique Heart, while Brooke Lynn Hytes penned: ‘Wrapping you in so much love.’
Need support?
For emotional support, you can call the Samaritans 24-hour helpline on 116 123, email [email protected], visit a Samaritans branch in person or go to the Samaritans website.
If you're a young person, or concerned about a young person, you can also contact PAPYRUS, the Prevention of Young Suicide UK.
Their HOPELINE247 is open every day of the year, 24 hours a day. You can call 0800 068 4141, text 88247 or email: [email protected].
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