Jane Bright, beloved contestant from Survivor: Nicaragua, has passed away at the age of 71.
The sad news was confirmed Thursday in a heartfelt social media post from her daughter, Ashley Hammett, who revealed that Jane was found dead in her home. The cause of death has not yet been disclosed.
A Fierce Competitor and Fan Favorite
Jane Bright captured viewers’ hearts during her time on Survivor: Nicaragua in 2010. A North Carolina native and professional dog trainer, Jane joined the competition as part of the Espada tribe and ultimately finished 6th out of 20 contestants.
While she didn’t take home the grand prize, her grit, warmth, and resilience earned her the $100,000 fan favorite award — a testament to the strong connection she built with fans.
Tributes Pour In From the ‘Survivor’ Community
News of Jane’s passing sparked a wave of emotion from fellow Survivor alumni. Two-time winner Sandra Diaz-Twine wrote, “Rest in heavenly peace,” while Season 15 winner Todd Herzog shared, “Love you Jane! Always in our hearts!”
Their touching messages reflect the impact Jane made not just on fans, but also on her fellow castaways.
A Legacy of Strength and Heart
Jane Bright’s journey on Survivor and her life beyond the show embodied determination, compassion, and authenticity. She will be remembered for her resilience, her bond with nature, and the fierce love she had for her family and dogs.
Rest in peace, Jane. You were truly one of a kind.