Joshua Seiter, former contestant on “The Bachelorette,” was reportedly falsely reported dead at the age of 36 by a hacker that released a false death statement, according to The Messenger.
Seiter’s family seemingly confirmed the news of his death in a message posted to his Instagram account, Monday, but newly reported updates indicate this may have been a death hoax, and Seiter is alive and well. “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,” the family seemingly wrote to Instagram. The star posted a video Tuesday, proving he was alive and well.
View this post on Instagram
The false death report went on to pay tribute to Seiter, and spoke of the lasting impression he left on those who loved him.
“His fearless voice and indomitable spirit helped thousands of people in their darkest moments feel just a little less alone,” they wrote.
They then touched on his struggles with mental health.
“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,” the family posted. “While we do that, we would kindly ask for privacy as we grieve.”
View this post on Instagram
The death hoax went on to encourage others who may be battling mental health issues to seek help. (RELATED: New Information Surfaces In Investigation Into ‘Euphoria’ Star Angus Cloud’s Death)
View this post on Instagram
“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,” they wrote.
Seiter participated as a contestant on “The Bachelorette” during Kaitlyn Bristowe’s season in 2015 and was eliminated the first week, according to NBC News.