Importance Score: 25 / 100 🔵
Ben Rathbun, known for his role on the reality TV show 90 Day Fiancé, has passed away at the age of 55 after a battle with stomach cancer. The news of the 90 Day Fiancé star’s death has shocked fans of the TLC series, prompting tributes online. Rathbun’s journey on the show, marked by his relationship with Mahogany Roca, captured the attention of viewers.
Remembering Ben Rathbun: 90 Day Fiancé Star Dies After Cancer Battle
Rathbun died Monday morning at his home in Greencastle, Indiana, according to TMZ. He had been diagnosed with stage four stomach cancer late last year. Sources reported that he was surrounded by loved ones during his final moments.
From Reality TV to Real Life
Ben Rathbun became a familiar face to viewers of 90 Day Fiancé during his appearance on 90 Day Fiancé: Before the 90 Days season 5. He was a 52-year-old divorced father of four when he met Mahogany Roca, then 22. The show documents couples where one partner travels to the U.S. on a 90-day K-1 visa, requiring them to decide whether to marry before the visa expires.
Ben and Mahogany’s Journey
Rathbun’s family and some viewers initially expressed concerns that he was being catfished, as Roca was hesitant to engage in video calls during their online courtship. The pair eventually met in person in Peru and subsequently married. Their relationship was further explored on the spinoff series, 90 Day Diaries, where they shared details about their marriage.
A Private Ceremony and Future Plans
“Our civil ceremony was just brilliant, I could not believe how beautiful it was,” Rathbun said on a February 2024 episode of 90 Day Diaries.
He also mentioned plans for a religious ceremony, noting the need to “build trust” with his wife.
Financial Challenges
In an interview with In Touch, Rathbun spoke about financial difficulties:
- “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 React to the News
News of Ben Rathbun’s death prompted widespread reactions from fans of the 90 Day Fiancé franchise, many of whom shared their condolences online:
- “Crazy. He looked so healthy. Reminder that we aren’t promised tomorrow.”
- “I’m saddened by the loss of Ben. He had a unique spirit and a powerful impact on those who knew him well.”
- “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.”