"Bachelorette" contestant Tyler Gwozdz, who fought for Hannah Brown's heart in season 15 of the reality TV show, is dead from a suspected drug overdose. The 29-year-old was reportedly hospitalized several days ago in a stable but critical condition but on Wednesday he died, Fox News reported.
An official cause of death will be confirmed after an autopsy is conducted, but it could take up to 12 weeks for the results to be released, the Palm Beach County Medical Examiner said.
According to the 911 call, obtained by TMZ, Gwozdz overdosed on heroin on Jan. 13. He had allegedly locked himself in the bathroom of a house and the woman caller had to break down the door to get to him. Gwozdz was transported to a nearby hospital, where he was admitted into ICU.
Producers of "The Bachelor" franchise released a statement Thursday confirming the news.
"Tyler Gwozdz, 29, former 'Bachelorette' Season 15 contestant (Hannah Brown), has passed away," it read. "The eldest of five, Tyler was a loving son and friend to many. A successful entrepreneur, Gwozdz was planning on becoming a psychologist, working to obtain his PhD. Tyler had an adventurous spirit and a zest for life."
Gwozdz caused a stir after he was suddenly sent home three weeks into "Bachelorette." He captivated Brown from day one of the show and was the person she chose for her first one-on-one date. His sudden departure left her taken aback.
No further explanation was offered as to why Gwozdz had left the show but it was reported that his removal was linked to allegations by an ex-girlfriend who accused him of spitting on her. Gwozdz denied the claims.
Zoe Papadakis ✉
Zoe Papadakis is a Newsmax writer based in South Africa with two decades of experience specializing in media and entertainment. She has been in the news industry as a reporter, writer and editor for newspapers, magazine and websites.
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