A reality star has died just a year after losing her co-star and son in a car crash. Race Across the World's Jo Gardiner died from cancer.
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She was 61.
A year ago, her son Sam died in a car wreck. Both Jo and Sam starred on the second series of the reality show. Her family confirmed her death "following a long and courageous battle with cancer."
"We know how deeply Jo was loved, and we take comfort in knowing that her laughter, her courage, her kindness and her wonderfully outrageous spirit will live on in the many people whose lives she touched," her family also added.
"As we grieve, we ask for privacy, but we also ask everyone who knew and loved Jo to do exactly what she would have wanted: tell the funny stories, raise a glass, have an adventure, laugh loudly and live life to the full," the statement said.
Reality Star Dies from Cancer
Meanwhile, the reality show shared a heartfelt tribute to the reality star on on X.
"Millions of people remembered [Jo and Sam's] transformative journey across Latin America in 2020 and we hold that memory in our hearts as we fondly recall Jo's passion for life, her kindness, her strength, and above all her utter devotion to Sam and her family," the statement said.
"At the time of filming, Sam described his mum as amazing - and that is how we will always remember her," it added. "Jo became the matriarch of the Race Across the World cast family, she leaves a lasting legacy in the many lives that she touched, both through the series and beyond. It was a privilege to share her story and she will be deeply missed."
Sam died a year earlier, in May 2025. He crashed his Volkswagen in Manchester, England, dying from severe injuries.
"Sam left us far too soon, and whilst words will never fully capture the light, joy and energy he brought into our lives, we hold on to the memories that made him so special," they said at the time. "Sam brought warmth, laughter and a smattering of chaos wherever he went," the tribute added. "He leaves behind a huge hole in our hearts. We will miss him endlessly, but we'll also remember him with smiles, tall tales, and a depth of love that will never fade".
