The entertainment world is in mourning following the death of Jasen Kaplan, a celebrity makeup artist and contestant on the reality dating series Finding Prince Charming. He was 46 years old.
Details of a Sudden Loss
Kaplan passed away in a New York City hospital on December 31, according to a report by Page Six. The New York Police Department confirmed an investigation is currently underway into the death of a 46-year-old male at the late star's apartment building. The chief medical examiner will determine the official cause of death.
This tragic news comes just weeks after the 'sudden' passing of his former castmate, Chad Spodick, who died by suicide at age 42 in December. Both men appeared on the first season of the Lance Bass-hosted show in 2016.
A Cherished Figure in Celebrity Circles
Beyond his brief reality TV stint, Kaplan was a highly sought-after makeup artist with an impressive client list. He worked with A-list stars including Eva Longoria, Lynda Carter, Cyndi Lauper, and Sonja Morgan.
He cultivated particularly close friendships with Bethenny Frankel and Kelly Osbourne, both of whom shared heartfelt tributes on social media. Frankel, the Real Housewives of New York alum, described Kaplan as having "a positive energy that was truly infectious" and called him "a one-of-a-kind gem."
She revealed he was a constant support, both personally and professionally, and was close to her 15-year-old daughter, Bryn. "He always showed up and cheered me on - in life, work, and online," Frankel wrote.
Tributes from Friends and Followers
Kelly Osbourne posted a series of emotional stories to Instagram, expressing her devastation. "I love you so much... thank you for all the love, laughter and joy you brought into my life," she wrote. Osbourne assured followers that Kaplan's beloved dog, Coco, would "always be looked after" and said she would miss their late-night video calls.
Kaplan, who had nearly 100,000 Instagram followers, was active on social media until his death, often showcasing his makeup work. His passing has sent shockwaves through the community of fans and colleagues who admired his vibrant personality and generous spirit.
The death of his co-star, Chad Spodick, was confirmed on a GoFundMe page in early December, which described him as a "beautiful, kind, and generous" person. Spodick, a pilot and co-founder of a charter jet company, was 42.
If you or someone you know needs help, please call or text the confidential 24/7 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline in the US on 988. There is also an online chat available at 988lifeline.org.
