Jane Bright, Former Survivor: Nicaragua Contestant, Dies at 71

Bright’s daughter announced her death in a Facebook post on Thursday, May 15

NEED TO KNOW

• Jane Bright, who competed in season 21 of Survivor: Nicaragua, died at the age of 71 on Thursday, May 15
• Her daughter, Ashley Hammett, announced the news in a Facebook post that revealed Jane was found dead in her North Carolina home
• Jane was best known for her quirky personality on the competition series, coming in sixth place and taking home the audience fan-favorite award

Jane Bright has died.

The Survivor star’s daughter, Ashley Hammett, announced that her mother died in her North Carolina home on Thursday, May 15, in a Facebook post. She was 71 years old.

“Today Jane Hammett Bright was found passed away within her home by a good friend and county sheriff,” Ashley wrote.

Jane competed among 20 people in season 21 of Survivor: Nicaragua in 2010 and was known for her quirky, outgoing personality. Although she ultimately came in sixth place, she later won the Sprint Fan Favorite audience prize.

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According to her profile from her time on the show, Jane was a dog trainer and the oldest of the castaways that season.

Hours after learning of Jane’s death, Survivor: Ghost Island alum Donathan Hurley shared his reaction in a sweet message on X.

“Lord, I sure did get my heart broken when I opened up Facebook after work!” he wrote. “One of my favorite Survivor family members, as I call them all, has passed away. I loved Jane so much!!! This lady was a firecracker! Always ready to have a good time and a good laugh! RIP Jane.”

Sandra Diaz-Twine, who has won Survivor twice, honored Jane as well in an Instagram post.

“Rest in heavenly peace. Jane from Survivor Nicaragua #survivor,” the caption read.

Jeff Probst, the host and executive producer of the show, released a statement on the official Survivor Instagram page the following day.

“What stood out to me about Jane is that she didn’t let age be a barrier to adventure,” he said. “She dove headfirst into Survivor with grit and heart. Jane embodied the spirit of Survivor and leaves a legacy that I hope will continue to inspire others to apply for the adventure of a lifetime.”

He signed the note, “Jeff ❤️”

Jane’s loved ones and the Survivor community also mourned her death in the comments of Ashley’s post, proving just how special she was.

“I am so heartbroken to hear this,” one user wrote. “She was truly one of a kind and an inspiration to many in the sport. Sending prayers to you and family and friends as you navigate this time. Her spirit and memories will live on.”

Another commented: “Ashley, I’m so shocked and sorry to hear this. She was the strongest and most determined person I’ve ever met.”

Others praised Jane for having “a heart bigger than the world,” and being “such a force of nature.”

Jane’s cause of death remains unknown.