Former Bachelorette contestant, Josh Seiter, has spoken out after falling victim to a cruel death hoax. The reality TV star, who appeared on The Bachelorette in 2015, took to social media to confirm that he is alive and well, stating that his Instagram account had been hacked and a fake death announcement had been posted as a cruel joke. Seiter revealed that the incident had mocked his mental illness and struggles with depression and suicide attempts.
Seiter did not disclose the identity of the person responsible for hacking his account, but the original Instagram post, which was attributed to his family, has since been deleted. This is the second time this month that a celebrity or internet influencer has been targeted with a false death announcement on social media. Just a few days prior, the 14-year-old rapper known as Little Tay also reported that her Instagram account had been hacked and a fake death announcement had been posted.
Numerous media outlets had reported Seiter’s death based on the now-deleted Instagram post allegedly originating from his family members. When asked about those who questioned the authenticity of the hacking incident, Seiter stated that he had a thick skin and that he was a victim, not the perpetrator, of the cruel joke. The former reality TV contestant, who openly speaks about his mental health struggles, including his past suicide attempt, expressed disappointment and called the incident egregious.
Seiter appeared on the 11th season of The Bachelorette, where he competed for the affection of Kaitlyn Bristowe. He was eliminated after the first week of the show. In July 2021, Seiter publicly admitted his previous suicide attempt and has been candid about battling mental health issues such as obsessive-compulsive disorder, bipolar depression, and generalized anxiety disorder.
The incident has shed light on the insensitive nature of such pranks, especially when they make fun of mental illness and suicide. Seiter expressed his disappointment but also acknowledged that he was not surprised that someone would find humor in mocking these serious issues.
As social media continues to play a significant role in the lives of celebrities and influencers, incidents like this serve as a reminder of the potential dangers and consequences of online attacks. The impact of such false reports can be distressing not only for the individuals directly affected but also for their families, friends, and fans.
The incident involving Josh Seiter underscores the need for increased awareness and responsibility when using social media platforms. It is essential to remain vigilant, safeguard personal accounts, and report any suspicious activity. Authorities have been alerted to investigate the hacking incident and identify those responsible for the distress caused to Seiter and his loved ones.
In an age where information can spread rapidly, it is crucial to exercise caution and verify the authenticity of news before sharing or reacting to it. Social media platforms also have a responsibility to improve their security measures and ensure that their users are protected from such incidents. As for Josh Seiter, he remains focused on his mental health journey, determined not to let this cruel hoax define him, and encourages others to seek the help and support they need when facing similar challenges.
