Ben Rathbun dead: 90 Day Fiancé star, 55, dies just months after tragic stomach cancer diagnosis

90 Day Fiancé: Before the 90 Days star Ben Rathbun has died. The TV star died aged 55 at his home in Greencastle, Indiana, and was surrounded by his relatives.

His death comes just months after he was diagnosed with Stage 4 stomach cancer towards the end of last year. Ben had recently been receiving treatment following his diagnosis. The late reality star featured in the fifth season of the popular reality series spinoff, where his romance with Mahogany Roca, a woman 30 years younger, captured the attention of both supporters and detractors.

90 Day Fiancé featured four women who travelled from their home countries to live with their fiancés for the first time using a 90-day fiancé visa. At the end of the duration, they were told to decide whether they would marry their fiancé or choose to separate.

READ MORE:

READ MORE:

The ex-clergyman and father of four, who was 52 at the time, met the 22-year-old Roca online. Despite viewers' suspicions that she might be catfishing him, the couple eventually met face-to-face, silencing doubters.

Their love story, rife with cultural clashes, trust issues, and internet gossip, became a central theme of the season. Despite their tumultuous start, it seems the duo got married after the show ended, with reports indicating Roca was by Rathbun's side when he passed away.

"Ben's journey, though unconventional, was rooted in faith and hope," commented someone close to the family. Ben and Mahogany eventually went on to marry one another.

Rathbun's narrative was among the more contentious on the show, with audiences split over his motives and the genuineness of their connection. Nonetheless, his determination to find love and stay transparent amid scrutiny made a memorable impact on the show's dedicated fans.

The couple eventually decided to marry and chose to tie the knot in Peru, where Roca is originally from. Speaking about his wedding, Ben said on the 90 Day Diaries spinoff: "Our civil ceremony was just brilliant, I could not believe how beautiful it was.

"But we are still planning on having a religious ceremony." Despite them having already tied the knot, he explained in February 2024 that the couple needed time to "build trust".

Speaking to InTouch, he said: "We're just going through a challenging transition. I've gone about six months without a really good job and bills have been piling up, of course. Things are extremely tight now and I’m doing everything I can right now to pay all the bills and for my next trip to Peru."

Fans have since taken to social media to share tributes, with one writing: "Awe so sad! Prayers to his family." A second added: "Crazy. He looked so healthy. Reminder that we aren’t promised tomorrow."

"Oh Wow. Always liked him on the show. So sad. Prayers and condolences to his family, friends, and all that knew and loved him. May he R.I.P," commented a third. A fourth follower penned: "How sad. God bless him and help his family get through this." "So sad to hear this may Ben RIP," said another.

Rathbun leaves behind his four children and spouse, Mahogany. As of Tuesday, TLC has yet to issue a statement.

The Macmillan Support Line offers confidential support to people living with cancer and their loved ones. If you need to talk, call us on 0808 808 0000.

Like this story? For more of the latest showbiz news and gossip, follow Mirror Celebs on , , , , , and .