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Former ‘Bachelorette’ Contestant Michael Nance Dead at 31
Former Bachelorette contestant Michael Nance has passed away at the age of 31, according to the Austin Police Department.
The Texas native competed on Emily Maynard‘s season of the hit ABC dating show in 2012, and was eliminated in week four. His occupation at the time was listed as a rehab counselor.
Emily and Michael on The Bachelorette.
“At this point it is not a suspicious death and the manner will be determined by the medical examiner,” a spokesperson for the homicide unit told E! News. According to their report, Michael was pronounced dead at 2:54 a.m. on May 29.
Emily tweeted about his death on Tuesday morning. “So sad waking up to the news about Michael Nance. Such a kind heart with so much talent. Sending prayers and love to his family and friends,” the now married mother-of-three wrote.
So sad waking up to the news about Michael Nance. Such a kind heart with so much talent. Sending prayers and love to his family and friends.
— Emily MaynardJohnson (@EmilyMaynard) May 30, 2017
Several of Michael’s former castmates also spoke out. Sean Lowe said, “My heart breaks to hear about the passing of my friend Michael Nance. He was a sweet man with a kind soul. We all loved him on Bachelorette.”
Emily’s runner-up, Arie Luyendyk Jr., hinted that he may have passed away from an overdose. “I will always remember my friend Michael Nance for his kind and fragile soul,” he wrote. “Addiction is a terrible disease, may he finally find peace.”
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Tony Pieper added, “My fondest memories of Michael were when he would sing and play guitar in the Bachelor house. You could tell that was his happy and joyous place. He had such a big heart and was such a genuine guy. We lost a good one in Michael. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family. RIP, buddy.”
Kalon McMahon agreed with that sentiment, writing, “He was one of the nicest and most genuine guys in the house. We kept in touch after the show and I’m just really sad. His music was amazing. He was amazing. He was a gentle giant.”
Our thoughts are with Michael’s family and friends during this difficult time.
