Naked And Afraid Star Melanie Rauscher Dies Aged 35

Melanie Rauscher, star of reality survival series Naked and Afraid, has passed away at the age of 35. 

The 35-year-old's passing was announced via an online obituary which detailed the star had 'passed away suddenly on Sunday, 17 July, 2022'.

Tributes for the former member of the US Navy - who went on to take part in Discovery Channel's Naked and Afraid as well as Naked and Afraid XL - have since poured in on social media.

A representative for the Prescott Police Department named Corey Kasun told TMZ Rauscher was found having passed away in the guest room of a house in Prescott, Arizona, where she was reportedly dog sitting for people away on holiday.

Police are reported as not currently suspecting any foul play.

Rauscher is noted in her obituary on Legacy as having been a 'devoted daughter,' 'cherished sister' and 'loving aunt' who will 'also be missed by many aunts, uncles, cousins, and many friends'.

The page details how the 35-year-old grew up in Philadelphia before serving in the US Navy 'aboard the USS Theodore Roosevelt CVN-17 during the Iraq War'.

As well as having served in the navy, Rauscher was 'employed at the Prescott VA Medical Center at the time of her passing'.

"She lived her life in service to others," the page states.

The obituary also noted how much of 'an avid outdoor enthusiast' she was, loving activities such as camping, hiking and being a 'passionate athlete'.

The Naked and Afraid participant was also a 'diehard Eagles fan', 'natural comedian' and her wit is described as having been 'unmatched'.

"Melanie's boisterous laugh will echo in the hearts and minds of her loved ones forever," the page concludes.

Friends and fans of the 35-year-old have flocked to social media to pay their respects to the reality television star.

Kristie London took to Facebook to share an image of her and Rauscher. She wrote: "This news broke my heart into a million pieces....it still doesn't feel real.

"There is so much I could say about Mel, I just don't know where to start. Wow, could she make me laugh. Yes, I know we will meet again and yes, I know she will continue to live on....but sometimes, it just hurts. This one hurts. Mel was special and anyone who had the honor of meeting her, knowing her, just knew it. Mel's passing has left such a huge hole in our hearts. Rochester Parafest will never be the same. I hope they have darts in heaven. You can practice until I get there lol

"Please keep Melanie's soul, her family and friends in your thoughts and prayers while they navigate through this difficult time. RIP my friend."

Fellow cast member Seth Reece similarly took to the platform to pay his respects.

His post reads: "R.I.P. Melanie Rauscher. It's a sad day... I just learned that we lost a tribe member. Only so many of us on this Earth know what it's like to be a cast member of this challenge and show.

"I didn't know Mel personally but I feel a kinship with anyone who has done what we have done and I am still deeply saddened to learn of her death. I'm sure within time we will learn about what happened, but my thoughts and prayers are with her, her family and friends."

Melanie's cause of death is reported as being determined by the Yavapai County Medical Examiner and in October later this year, a 'celebration of life' is expected to be held in Philadelphia for the Naked and Alone star.

The obituary concludes: "In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to PTSD Foundation of America, an organization for which Melanie had a deep devotion."

If you have experienced a bereavement and would like to speak with someone in confidence contact Cruse Bereavement Care via their national helpline on 0808 808 1677