'Survivor' Reality Television Star Dies, Remembered for Historic Run on Reality Show

New Yorker and former "Survivor" contestant has died

Photo byTMZ

In an unfortunate turn of events, Kim Johnson, a "Survivor:Africa" cast member, has died at age 79. Her fellow contestant and friend Ethan Zohn confirmed the news in an emotional Instagram post on Monday, July 29.

Johnson, a retired teacher from Oyster Bay, New York, performed on the show in 2001. She was the oldest woman to compete that season, but still a fierce competitor, winning seven challenges and two immunity necklaces.

She had a memorable moment during the final immunity challenge when she topped her opponents by balancing on a log for over three hours. Although she finished runner-up to Zohn in a 5-2 jury vote, Johnson remained popular with fans worldwide.

Johnson volunteered for the blind and deaf after "Survivor" and showed her compassion outside the reality television bubble.

Photo byTMZ

Her cause of death is unknown, though fans and friends will remember Johnson for her performance on the show and her history as the oldest female to have competed on "Survivor."

New York loses one of its own as memories of Kim Johnson remain in the hearts of those who knew and admired her.