Former reality show contestant Josh Seiter has died at the age of 36, his family has announced.

Writing on his Instagram page, his family said: “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. 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 up 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.”

His family did not mention the cause of his death but did share details for crisis prevention organisations.

He appeared in a 2015 series of The Bachelorette but was voted out in the first week.

It is thought he was most recently dating Ru Paul’s Drag Race star Monica Beverly Hillz, who posted her tribute on Instagram alongside pictures of them together, saying: “RIP my honey”.

She later added: ‘I’m devastated and tryna find the words to say but I have none!!!’

Kaitlyn Bristowe, who was the eligible bachelorette on his season of the hit show, also posted, saying: “My condolences to Josh’s family, I still can’t believe it.”

She later said in a video: “I still can’t believe what’s happened to Josh, I’m so sad. But I hope he rests in peace and I hope he’s with God now.”

Seiter had recently posted, “surviving depression and anxiety one day at a time with a smile”, on Instagram, and has a history of being open about his mental health struggles.

Anyone feeling emotionally distressed or suicidal can call Samaritans for help on 116 123 or email [email protected] in the UK. In the US, call the Samaritans branch in your area or 1 (800) 273-TALK.

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