Jane Bright, a contestant onSurvivor: Nicaragua,passed away on Thursday, May 15, according toPEOPLE.Jane's daughter made the announcement on Facebook.
Jane, 71, was a fan favorite for the 21st season and left a lasting impact on theSurvivorcommunity. Her energy lit up those around her, and she remains one of the more popularSurvivorcastaways.
Jane made an impact on the Survivor family
Jane may have placed sixth onSurvivor: Nicaragua,but her impact runs far deeper than that placement. In 2010, when her season premiered, Jane was a 56-year-old dog trainer who had recently lost her husband. However, her husband became an inspiration for her during the season.
In an interview withEWat the time, she spoke about her husband's death.
"Don always wanted me to do this. He knew I was applying throughout the years. And because he's not here? He is here, and I'm gonna tell you what, we've had pictures taken at my house, and I lost him and one of my show dogs about the same time, and their orbs show up in pictures, so I know they're with me, honey."
Jane made her mark on the season through her bright energy and her hard work ethic, which she aimed to instill in her tribe. She brought humor and levity to a challenging situation, and also stood strong on her loyalty and commitment to honesty. These qualities resonated with the viewers, who ultimately voted her fan favorite for the season.
Jane continued to be a big part of theSurvivorcommunity after her season, attending viewing parties and reunions, and meeting with many castaways from more recent seasons. Everyone who met her described her as a positive, loving, and energetic figure who left an immediate impression on everyone she met.
Reaction to Jane's passing
Jane's daughter, Ashley,posted to Facebookon Thursday, announcing her mother's sudden passing. The post simply stated, "Today Jane Hammett Bright was found passed away within her home by a good friend and county sheriff." Little else has been revealed regarding her passing.
TheSurvivorcommunity has sent an outpouring of love and support for Jane and the impact she has had. Two-time winner andSurvivorlegend Sandra Diaz-Twine posted a picture of Jane.
Donathan Hurley ofSurvivor: Ghost Islandalso shared his condolences and wrote on X.
Lord, I sure did get my heart broken when I opened up Facebook after work! 💔💔💔 One of my favorite Survivor family members, as I call them all, has passed away. 😢 I loved Jane so much!!! This lady was a firecracker! Always ready to have a good time and a good laugh! RIP Jane.pic.twitter.com/nO9n2alM17
— Donathan Hurley (@donathanhurley)May 15, 2025
Survivoralum and podcaster Jonny Fairplay also posted about Jane on Facebook.
It is clear that Jane's legacy carried with her throughout her life and will continue in her memory. Thank you, Jane, for bringing your sense of humor, love of life, and care for all those around you to our television screens and the real world. You are loved and will be deeply missed.
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