Fans of TLC’s “Unexpected” first met Max Schenzel during Seasons 2 of the hit reality series alongside his then-girlfriend, Chloe Mendoza. The former couple documented the ups and downs of becoming teenage parents while raising their daughter, Ava, in front of cameras.
Throughout Max’s time on the show, viewers also got to know his father, Todd Schenzel, who frequently appeared alongside his son and played a major role in helping guide Max through some of the most difficult moments of his young adulthood.
Now, Max is mourning a heartbreaking personal loss after announcing that his father, Todd Schenzel, has passed away following a battle with stage 4 glioblastoma. Read on to discover the emotional tribute Max shared and how fans are reacting to the devastating news.
Max Schenzel Announces The Passing Of His Father Todd Schenzel
Max Schenzel from Seasons 2 and 3 of TLC’s “Unexpected” took to Instagram on Saturday, May 23, 2026, to announce that his father, Todd Schenzel, had passed away on Friday. Max had previously shared with fans that his father was in hospice, following his diagnosis with stage 4 glioblastoma in April 2026.
Max shared the heartbreaking news on his Instagram story, writing, “R.I.P. Dad, Gone too soon. You will be missed dearly, I will walk this path knowing you are looking down on me. Time to make you even more proud.” Todd Schenzel was just 61 years old when he lost his battle to cancer.
‘Unexpected’ Fans Rally Around Max Schenzel Following The Loss
Fans took to social media to show Max support following the loss of his father.
One fan wrote, “Max, I am so sorry. I will pray for your continued and strength.”
Another fan commented, “Very sad, may God comfort the hearts of all family and friends.”
A third fan chimed in, writing, “This poor kid has been through so much.”
As “Unexpected” fans will remember, Todd was a single parent to Max. Max’s mother was not in the picture as she struggled with substance abuse, which was another key reason Todd was so alarmed when it was revealed that Max was also struggling with substance abuse during his seasons on “Unexpected.”
Luckily, it appears that Max has left that season of his life behind him in recent years, focusing on his health through bodybuilding and strengthening his faith.
Max Schenzel Previously Opened Up About His Father’s Cancer Battle
On April 11, 2026, Max took to Instagram to share with fans how he was dealing with his dad’s terminal diagnosis. The TLC alum wrote, “Life hit me harder than it ever has. Hearing my dad was diagnosed with stage 4 glioblastoma changed everything overnight. It’s been the toughest thing I’ve ever had to face… mentally, emotionally, all of it. But in the middle of all that pain, I made a choice — I’m not folding.”
Max noted, “I’m still showing up. Still hitting the gym. Still going to church. pushing my mind and body when it would be easier to break. Because strength isn’t just built on good days… it’s forged in moments like this.”
While Max Schenzel now faces an incredibly difficult chapter following the loss of his father, many “Unexpected” fans are continuing to rally around him online. Supporters remain hopeful that the faith, fitness, and personal growth Max has spoken openly about in recent years will help guide him through the painful loss of the parent who stood by his side throughout so much of his life.
