Ryan Seacrest is navigating a painful loss, with loved ones by his side. TV personality host shared that his father, Gary Lee Seacrest, has died. Seacrest is turning to his family for strength as he grieves.
Earlier this year, the beloved “American Idol” host revealed that Gary had been battling prostate cancer for years.
Seacrest Navigates Grief With Family By His Side
He is leaning on family and work as he moves through the grief, recently posting a warm photo of his loved ones together. “Family, pizza, and me confidently smiling with marinara all over my teeth,” he wrote.
Ryan announced his father’s death in an October 31 Instagram post. “It is with a heavy heart that I share with you that my loving father peacefully passed away earlier this week,” he said. “My mom, sister and I have peace knowing he is in a better place and free of any pain or suffering. We are heartbroken.”
The Host Shares Cherished Family Photos and Memories
The tribute included touching photos of Gary surrounded by his family. Constance Marie Zullinger, Ryan’s mother, appeared in several images, along with his sister Meredith Seacrest, her husband Jimmy Leach, and their daughter Flora Leach.
The “American Idol” alum reflected on his father’s impact. “He was a devoted husband for 56 years, an incredible Papa to Flora, and my best friend,” he wrote. Among the images was a throwback shot of a young Ryan in a suit, standing proudly beside his dad. Another showed the pair cooking together in adulthood.
Ryan ended the message with a heartfelt note. “Dad you will live in our hearts forever. I love you.”
Ryan Revealed His Father’s Health Struggles Earlier This Year
Gary’s death comes months after Ryan publicly shared details about his father’s health. Speaking on the July 21 episode of “On Air with Ryan Seacrest,” he expressed how close they were. “My dad is about 80 years old, and I have a very close relationship with my father,” he said.
GettyHe then explained the long journey through Gary’s illness. “And my father was diagnosed with prostate cancer years ago and started his treatment. And he, it didn’t get better. It got worse and it spread. It didn’t go well for him.”
Ryan said he chose to speak about the illness after a frightening moment during “American Idol.”
“I was on an American Idol show live during last season and my sister called me and she said, ‘Dad is in the ICU. How fast can you get here?’” he recalled. Gary had developed pneumonia, and Ryan rushed to be with him. “I couldn’t even, I didn’t even remember what I was saying was on the show. It was like robotic at that point.”
Ryan Reflects on His Parents’ Love Through a Difficult Time
Through the most challenging moments, Ryan found comfort in the strength of his parents’ relationship. He remembered the sweet updates they shared during Gary’s treatment.
“I watched them over the weekends send photos of smiling and happiness and being together,” he said. “They’ve been married for 55 years. And they’ve got each other.”
He shared one memory that stayed with him. “They’re just happy to sit together looking at an ocean. And I just, I want to share that because I’ve been holding that in for a long time.”
As he continues to grieve, Ryan is choosing to honor those moments and the bond he shared with his father. The love, photos and stories now stand as a lasting tribute to Gary, whom he calls his best friend.
