Yahoo News UPDATE: Out ‘Bachelorette’ Star Joshua Seiter Dies, Age 36
Update 8/29: Joshua Seiter has returned to social media, claims reports of his death were caused by a hacker.
Joshua Seiter has died at age 36.
In a post on Instagram Seiter’s family confirmed the sad news with a moving message. "It is with an extremely heavy heart that we share the tragic news of Joshua's unexpected passing. As all who knew him can attest, Joshua was an incredibly bright light in an increasingly dim world," they wrote.
"His fearless voice and indomitable spirit helped thousands of people in their darkest moments feel just a little less alone. Although our heartache at Joshua's passing pains us beyond measure, we find comfort knowing that he is finally at peace."
Seiter first rose to prominence on Season 11 of The Bachelorette where he was eliminated in week 1. Since the series’ airing Seiter opened up about his sexuality first identifying as pansexual and later clarifying that he identified as bisexual. He also recently began an adult film career.
Prior to his passing Seiter shared his struggles with mental health writing "Surviving depression and anxiety one day at a time with a smile." While his family has not shared his cause of death, the statement also includes information about people to contact for those experiencing a mental health crisis.
Recently Seiter was romantically connected to RuPaul’s Drag Race star Monica Beverly Hillz, who shared a tribute to her ex on social media. She posted a photo of the two of them in happier times with the caption, “RIP My honey.”
Our hearts are with Seiter’s family in this painful time.
If you are having thoughts of suicide or are concerned that someone you know may be, resources are available to help. The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 is for people of all ages and identities. Trans Lifeline, designed for transgender or gender-nonconforming people, can be reached at (877) 565-8860. The lifeline also provides resources to help with other crises, such as domestic violence situations. The Trevor Project Lifeline, for LGBTQ+ youth (ages 24 and younger), can be reached at (866) 488-7386. Users can also access chat services at TheTrevorProject.org/Help or text START to 678678.
