Hailey Merkt, a beloved contestant from the 21st season of “The Bachelor,” has tragically passed away at the age of 31 after a courageous battle with leukemia. The heartbreaking news was shared by her family on her Instagram account earlier this week.
In a poignant post, her loved ones announced, “It is with broken hearts we share that our beloved Hailey has passed away after a courageous fight for her life.” The heartfelt message went on to praise Merkt’s strength and resilience, highlighting how she defied medical expectations with her indomitable spirit.
“Hailey faced this journey with unimaginable strength, grace, and selflessness,” the post continued. “Her determination, courage, and will to live surpassed every timeline the doctors gave her. She chose to spend her final moments surrounded by loved ones, doing what she cherished most with no regrets.”
Merkt’s family described her as a vibrant and unforgettable individual, noting, “She will forever be remembered as anything but boring, always hysterically funny, and as someone who lived fully in the present moment. Hailey embraced life with an unmatched zest; her beautiful spirit has touched countless lives.”
The post also expressed gratitude for the support Merkt received during her illness, inviting followers to share their memories of her. “We invite you to share your favorite memories of our dear Hailey, whether through a direct message or by posting them. Your stories and moments mean the world,” her family wrote.
A GoFundMe page established to support Merkt’s medical expenses remains open until August 10. As of now, it has raised over $112,000. The page confirms that Merkt passed away on July 26, and it reflects the outpouring of support she received during her battle.
Merkt first gained attention as a contestant on Nick Viall’s season of “The Bachelor,” which aired in 2017. Although she was eliminated early in the competition, her charm and spirit left a lasting impression on fans and fellow contestants alike.
Reactions to her passing have poured in from fellow “Bachelor” alums. Jasmine Goode, who appeared on Viall’s season alongside Merkt, wrote in a heartfelt tribute, “Baby girl 💔 we will love you always 🤍🕊️” and shared, “I’ll never forget that beautiful smile and laugh that made me crack up!! Love you🤍.”
Danielle Maltby, another season 21 alum, expressed her sorrow and gratitude for having known Merkt, stating, “I count myself so lucky to know your laugh and grateful to have met and loved the realest, warmest, most beautiful soul in the weirdest of places 🌹forever grateful for your friendship there and in the real world … What a force my girl, rest easy 🤍🪶 so much love to all your people.”
Raven Gates, the runner-up of that season, added, “Oh my gosh!!! I’m so so sad to hear this 😢 I was so hoping for her recovery. Rest easy, Hailey 🤍 you’ll never be forgotten.”
Winner Vanessa Grimaldi also paid tribute, writing, “Our beautiful girl!! This news broke me. You are such a light, your beautiful big smile will always be something I remember. Always. Rest easy, friend. Sending big hugs to your loved ones xoxo.”
In a heart-wrenching update on her GoFundMe page, Merkt had previously shared her fleeting hope of being “leukemia free” in April 2024, only to learn shortly thereafter that her condition had worsened. Despite her declining health, she remained focused on the impact of her illness on those she loved.
Merkt’s final wishes included no funeral services, reflecting her desire for a private farewell.
The passing of Hailey Merkt is a profound loss to all who knew her and a reminder of the strength and grace she exhibited throughout her life.
