Former Bachelorette contestant Josh Seiter revealed why he remained silent for 18 hours after his death was announced on his official Instagram on Monday.
When asked why he didn’t correct the hoax sooner, the reality star explained that the experience was “overwhelming” and that his “priority was to get back to” his Instagram.
The 36-year-old added that his time was largely monopolized by “long conversations with close relatives” and friends, as he rushed to be the first to tell them he was alive.
As the media broke the news and tributes poured in from RuPaul’s Drag Race star Monica Beverly Hillz and 90 Day Fiance star Karine Staehle, he told TMZ he was “desperately working” at home trying to regain access to his account to to let the world know he’s okay.
Stressful: Former Bachelorette contestant Josh Seiter revealed why he kept quiet for 18 hours after his death was announced on his official Instagram on Monday
“At least I’m not a celebrity in my eyes. I’m not famous. I don’t have a team that makes statements,” he explained.
Responding to criticism that he or one of his loved ones could have handled the situation more efficiently, Seiter reminded fans that he is the “victim” of an alleged hacking.
“I’m sorry I’m not perfect. I guess I could have done something other than go on Instagram to try and prove I was alive. But I have no experience with this,” the TV personality continued.
Seiter went on to say, “I did my best. And I’m sorry for anyone who was hurt by this person. I am a victim. And there are also victims.’
“It’s sad, there were tributes, but I’m not responsible for that.” he concluded.
During the interview, Harvey Levin and Charles Latibeaudiere called out Seiter and his family for hanging up and ignoring their calls.
“My family is broken. We are estranged,” he said of the “puzzling” decision of some of his relatives not to confirm or deny reports of his death.
A false statement was posted to his account, which read: ‘It is with an extremely heavy heart that we share the tragic news of Joshua’s unexpected passing. As anyone who knew him can attest, Joshua was an incredibly bright light in an increasingly dark world.”
Explaining herself: When asked why he didn’t correct the hoax sooner, the reality star explained that the experience was “overwhelming” and that his “priority was to get back to” his Instagram
A hoax: The 36-year-old added that his time was also monopolized by “long conversations with close relatives” and friends as he rushed to tell them he was alive before
Seiter’s family said that ‘his fearless voice and unyielding spirit helped thousands of people in their darkest moments feel just a little less alone.
“While our heartache over Joshua’s passing hurts beyond measure, we take comfort in knowing that he is finally at peace.”
Seiter, who has been open about his mental health issues over the years, appeared on Kaitlyn Bristowe’s season of The Bachelorette in 2015.
He was eliminated in the show’s first week.
Seiter was born on August 14, 1987 in Chicago, Illinois.
Reality fame: Seiter, who struggles with his mental health, appeared on Kaitlyn Bristowe’s 2015 season of The Bachelorette (seen above on the show)
He received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, and then received his Juris Doctor degree from the Chicago-Kent College of Law.
Seiter was candid about living with mental health issues to his 456,000 followers on Instagram.
“Surviving depression and anxiety day by day with a smile,” he said in his latest post on Thursday.
In a July 2021 post pinned to the top of his page, Seiter wrote, “I’m Josh Seiter and I’m a suicide attempt survivor. I battle OCD, bipolar depression, and GAD (generalized anxiety disorder), but I refuse to give up. What did you survive?’
Seiter was introspective in a July 22 post on the social media site saying he’d battled daily with “feelings of worthlessness,” detailing the issues that were bothering him.
“Some of my biggest insecurities have to do with getting the approval of others,” he said. “You see, at heart I am a people lover. I am constantly trying to win the approval of others.’
Seiter was born on August 14, 1987 in Chicago, Illinois
He speculated on the root causes of why he felt this way, citing his upbringing and homeschooling, noting that he “didn’t have many friends” growing up.
He said, “The ‘Why?’ doesn’t matter as much as the “How?” How are we going to stop making our self-worth dependent on the acceptance of others?’
“The answer to that question only came after I was open and honest with the world about my mental health issues. It will be better.’
Two days earlier, Seiter had written a kind and uplifting message for people struggling with their mental health.
“I want to say to everyone who is struggling right now that I am proud of you. I’m proud of you for putting on your socks,” he wrote. “I’m proud of you for tying your shoes. I’m proud of you for getting out of the house when it feels like an insurmountable task in a Sisyphean battle that never ends.
“I want you to know it gets better. I know because I’ve been there. I want you to know that you matter. Your life matters.’
Recently released: Seiter made headlines two months ago when he revealed to Instinct Magazine that he was bisexual
As news of his passing spread, a number of his friends, fans and followers posted their condolences on his Instagram posts.
“This is tragic,” said one. Thank you Josh for being open and honest. I hope you are at peace. Condolences to his family and friends.”
Another said, “RIP handsome man,” while another said, “Beautiful man. May he rest in peace.’
His ex-girlfriend, Monica Beverly Hillz, posted on Instagram “RIP My honey.”
Seiter made headlines two months ago when he revealed that Instinct magazine that he was bisexual.
“I think the timing of coming out as bisexual is pretty foreseeable since I’m making this announcement during Pride Month,” Seiter told the outlet, noting that he had a religious upbringing. “Unlike some people, my awareness of my bisexuality manifested itself later in life.”
He added, “Now, in hindsight, I can clearly see that I’ve been very aware of my bisexuality and my attraction to men and women since college.”
Last month, he told Pride that he would “star in a series of adult films” after opening an Only Fans account.
He added, “Coming out has been the most liberating experience of my life, and it has opened up so many amazing opportunities for growth. This is just one rung on the ladder of bisexual experience I want to climb, and I couldn’t be more excited about the future!’
If you or someone close to you needs mental health care, text “STRENGTH” to the Crisis Textline at 741-741. To reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, call 988.