Sad news has shaken the reality TV world: Hailey Merkt, a former contestant on The Bachelor, has tragically passed away at the young age of 31.
A post on her Instagram account, shared on July 30, confirmed the heartbreaking news, revealing that Merkt had been fighting a courageous battle with leukemia.
The emotional tribute paid to her life described Hailey as facing her journey with “unimaginable strength, grace, and selflessness,” and that she had chosen to spend her final moments surrounded by loved ones, doing what she cherished most, with no regrets.
Merkt was eliminated from The Bachelor on Week 2 back in 2017, but she left a lasting impact on those who knew her.
The heartfelt post continued, celebrating Hailey’s life: Her laughter, her love, and her vibrant spirit have left an undeniable mark on our hearts. While we grieve her loss, we find comfort in knowing that her spirit will live on in all the lives she touched. Rest in peace, Hailey.
Hailey Merkt meets Nick Viall on The Bachelor Season 21. (ABC)The post also remembered Hailey as someone who lived life to the fullest, always being “hysterically funny” and embracing every moment with an unmatched zest.
In response to the news, several Bachelor Nation alums expressed their sadness and sorrow, including Raven Gates, who wrote, “Oh my gosh!!! I’m so so sad to hear this… Rest easy, Hailey. You’ll never be forgotten.”
Danielle Maltby, another suitor from the same season, shared a heartfelt message in memory of Hailey Merkt.
Hailey Merkt smiles here for the ABC cameras. (ABC)Maltby wrote, “I count myself so lucky to know your laugh and grateful to have met and loved the realest, warmest, most beautiful soul in the weirdest of places… forever grateful for your friendship there and in the real world…. What a force my girl, rest easy. so much love to all your people.”
A GoFundMe page has been set up to support Merkt’s family, which shares more details about Hailey’s courageous battle with leukemia.
The page concludes, “I am in awe of her. She had such clarity and independence and grace… The world without her is unacceptable, but we are having to accept it. We will hold her close forever.
