Editor's note: Josh Seiter took to Instagram on Tuesday, August 29 following the widely-published news of his passing, posting a video of himself stating that his account was hacked and the news of his death was a "cruel joke."
"For the last 24 hours I have been trying desperately to get into [my account'," he said in the video. "Somebody was playing a cruel joke and mocking my mental illness and the struggles I've gone through with depression and suicide attempts and I'm sorry for the pain they've caused.
The original Instagram post announcing Seiter's passing has since been deleted.
Original story (Monday, 8/28/2023):BisexualBachelorette star Josh Seiter has passed away at the age of 36.
A statement made by Seiter's family was posted to the reality TV personality's Instagram page on Monday afternoon. TMZ also reported the news on Monday.
Screengrab via Instagram (@josh_seiter_official)
"It is with an extremely heavy heart that we share the tragic news of Joshua's unexpected passing," the statement read. "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."
It 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."
Screengrab via Instagram (@monicabhillz)
RuPaul's Drag Race alum Monica Beverly Hillz, who was rumored to have been dating Seiter earlier this year, also took to Instagram to mourn his passing.
"RIP my honey," she captioned a pic of the two of them smiling together.
Seiter had just publicly come out as bisexual earlier this year during Pride Month after having previously identified as pansexual.
If you or someone you know needs help or support, The Trevor Project's trained crisis counselors are available 24/7 at 1-866-488-7386, via chat at TheTrevorProject.org/Get-Help, or by texting START to 678678.
