Chad Spodick, one of the 13 men to compete on the reality show “Finding Prince Charming,” has died at the age of 42.
The news of the reality TV star’s “sudden and heartbreaking” passing was announced by a close friend via a GoFundMe page set up on Thursday.
“Our hearts are shattered as we share the devastating news of the loss of our beautiful, kind, and generous son, brother and friend Chad,” Kate Werbowski wrote.
The fundraising page was created to help raise money for Spodick’s mother, Felice Harwood, as she plans “funeral arrangements and ongoing living expenses.”
“We are still struggling to comprehend a world without his light,” Werbowski added.
Although no details were given about the cause of Spodick’s death, the GoFundMe confirmed that it was “unexpected.”
“Chad was the type of person who poured himself into others,” the late actor and model’s friend wrote in her touching tribute. “He lifted up his friends, encouraged everyone around him to grow, to advocate for themselves, and to believe in their own worth.”
“His love for animals was unmatched – he cared deeply for every creature, especially his four beloved dogs and his bird, Cosmo,” Werbowski continued. “The world was brighter with Chad in it, and those who were lucky enough to know him felt the warmth of his heart every day.”
More than $13,000 of the GoFundMe’s $20,000 goal was raised as of Friday afternoon. Besides going toward Spodick’s funeral arrangements and his mom’s ongoing living expenses, the money will be used to “support her and Chad’s animals during this incredibly painful time.”
Spodick first gained popularity after competing on “Finding Prince Charming” in 2016.
The Logo series was the first all-gay dating show and saw 13 single men living together while competing for the heart of “eligible gay heartthrob” Robert Sepulveda Jr.
However, Spodick abruptly quit the Lance Bass-hosted show after six weeks. He later accused Sepélveda of pursuing him and other contestants after the show ended in a since-deleted Instagram post.
“Finding Prince Charming” fans have since taken to Spodick’s last social media post to remember him in the wake of his sudden passing.
“RIP Dear Beautiful Chad. You were loved and the aviation community mourns you and will always remember you,” one person wrote on Spodick’s last Instagram post, dated Nov. 21. “A great flight attendant, a good man, a lover of all animals, a good friend and son to Felece.”
“RIP Chad,” commented another. “Always so kind.”
“Chad pure soul with a huge heart. You will be missed my friend,” shared a third, while a fourth wrote, “Sad to see you go. Rest in Peace.”
Some of Spodick’s family members commented on the post as well, which saw the late reality star lying shirtless on a hammock with a bird perched on his left shoulder.
“My beautiful uncle,” his niece commented. “Fly high uncle chad love you forever. Please donate if you can to support our family any contributions are appreciated.”