Ryan Seacrest is mourning the death of his father, Gary Lee Seacrest. The “American Idol” host shared the heartbreaking news on Instagram earlier this week, posting a carousel of family photos with his parents, sister Meredith, and niece Flora. “It is with a heavy heart that I share with you that my loving father peacefully passed away earlier this week,” Seacrest wrote.
“My mom, sister and I have peace knowing he is in a better place and free of any pain or suffering. We are heartbroken.”
He continued, “He was a devoted husband for 56 years, an incredible Papa to Flora, and my best friend. Dad, you will live in our hearts forever. I love you.”
Hollywood Sends Love & Prayers to Seacrest
Following Seacrest’s post, an outpouring of love and condolences flooded his comments section from friends, fans, and colleagues.
Katy Perry wrote, “sending you and your family all the love ❤️🩹.” Michael Bublé added, “Love you man 💔.”
Mario Lopez shared, “God bless you and your family bro ❤️.” Carson Kressley commented, “Sending you lots of ❤️ at this sad time.”
The “American Idol” family also left a heartfelt message: “We love you, Ryan 💙💙.” Singer Meghan Trainor and “Party of Five” star Scott Wolf also left notes of support, while Wheel of Fortune’s Maggie Sajak added a simple heart emoji.
Fans Join in Offering Support
Fans filled the comment section with emotional tributes and kind words for the 49-year-old TV host.
“Deepest condolences dear Ryan 💝💝💝,” one fan wrote. Another added, “So sorry for your loss… thinking of you and your family.”
(Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images)Many praised Seacrest for always speaking fondly of his father and shared their hopes that he finds comfort surrounded by family and love.
Gary Seacrest Remembered as Devoted Husband & Father
During his July 21 radio show, Seacrest became emotional while opening up about his father’s difficult health battle.
“I haven’t shared this on the air because it has been very private for me and my family, as it was something that was extremely hard to see with my father,” Seacrest said. “I have a very close relationship with my father, and my father was diagnosed with prostate cancer years ago.”
The TV host explained that his father’s condition worsened despite treatment, leading to an ICU stay while Seacrest was filming “American Idol.”
“It didn’t get better, it got worse, and it spread,” he recalled. “It didn’t go well for him. He caught pneumonia.”
Seacrest said he immediately flew to Atlanta after learning of the setback, describing a “life or death conversation” with doctors about “an emergency surgery.” Ultimately, the family decided against the operation, and Seacrest stayed by his father’s side.
Fighting back tears, the “Idol” host said his parents later sent him a photo of themselves sitting at the beach together — a quiet, peaceful moment that meant everything after years of struggle.
Gary, who battled prostate cancer for years, had been a source of strength and inspiration for his family. Earlier this summer, Seacrest tearfully shared in an interview that his father’s cancer had returned after a brief remission.
The family had hoped for better news, but in July, Seacrest revealed that his father’s condition had worsened. Despite the struggle, Gary remained strong for his family, whom he cherished deeply.
Sending lots of love, hugs and prayers ❤️ 💖 ♥️
May GOD bless the SEACREST family & Fans.!!! 🙏🏼🕊 R.I.P. Mr Seacrest…