Rudy Boesch, the former Navy SEAL who played on the first season of Survivor and Survivor All Stars, has died at the age of 91.
Survivor host Jeff Probst tweeted the news of Rudy’s passing over the weekend.
“The Survivor family has lost a legend,” Jeff Probst said. “Rudy Boesch passed at the age of 91. He played in the first season of Survivor at the age of 72. He is one is the most iconic and adored players of all time. And he served our country as a 45-year Navy SEAL. Rudy is a true American hero.”
The SEAL Veterans Foundation also reported on Rudy’s death.
“It is with a broken heart that we inform you that Master Chief Rudy Boesch passed away last night,” the foundation posted on their Facebook page over the weekend.
“Master Chief was a legend in the SEAL and Special Operations community,” the foundation said. Rudy served from 1944 to 1990.
The original Survivor winner Richard Hatch, who played alongside Rudy, tweeted his condolences.
“Ours was an interesting bond, Dear Rudy!” Richard tweeted. ” You and I helped open minds and undermine [prejudices]. While your time here has passed, you will remain loved and iconic, dear friend!”
Many other Survivor alum shared their thoughts on Rudy’s passing as well, including current Survivor Island of the Idols mentor Rob Mariano.
“We lost an original OG Survivor legend,” Boston Rob tweeted. “I feel fortunate to have known him and played the game with him. Our sincere condolences to his family. Read in Peace Rudy.”
Rudy, known as the oldest person to play the game, finished third on Survivor Borneo, and on Survivor All Stars he was the second person voted off, then aged 75.
Our condolences go out to Rudy’s family. Rest in Peace, Rudy.
