A former reality TV contestant who went on to become a trusted makeup artist to some of Hollywood’s biggest names has died.
Jasen Kaplan, who appeared on the short-lived dating series Finding Prince Charming, passed away at age 46. Page Six first reported the news on January 1.
The show aired in 2016 on Logo and was hosted by Lance Bass. It followed a group of gay men competing for the affection of bachelor Robert Sepulveda Jr. Kaplan was eliminated during the second week of the competition.
Tragically, Kaplan is the second Finding Prince Charming alum to die in recent weeks. Fellow contestant Chad Spodick died by suicide in early December.
While Spodick stepped away from the spotlight after the show, Kaplan built a successful career in the beauty industry, becoming a go-to makeup artist for celebrities. According to TMZ, his clients included Kelly Osbourne, Bethenny Frankel, and Gastineau Girls stars Lisa and Brittny Gastineau.
Lisa Gastineau told TMZ she was “heartbroken and shocked,” adding that Kaplan was “part of our family” and that the loss was difficult to comprehend.
Osbourne shared a series of emotional Instagram Stories on January 1, posting photos of herself with Kaplan and writing that she was devastated by his death. In another post, she promised to care for Kaplan’s dog, Coco, and said she would forever miss their late-night FaceTime calls. She also shared throwback photos and videos celebrating their 25-year friendship, calling him the best wingman she could have ever asked for.
According to Us Weekly, Kaplan also worked with stars including Cyndi Lauper, Lynda Carter, Eva Longoria, and Tinsley Mortimer. As recently as September, he worked with Frankel and her daughter Bryn at multiple events.
Former Danity Kane singer and reality TV alum Aubrey O’Day also mourned Kaplan in Instagram Stories, calling him her “GHUB of 20 years” and saying those who loved him were still struggling to process the loss. She shared several videos in his memory and urged followers to check in on their strongest friends.
In the weeks before his death, Kaplan had posted a heated Instagram video addressing an accusation of antisemitism made by Real Housewives of New Jersey alum Jackie Goldschneider. The post was shared on December 17.
Details surrounding Kaplan’s death remain limited. Page Six reported that the NYPD is investigating a death at Kaplan’s Hell’s Kitchen apartment building and confirmed that a 46-year-old man had died. Sources also told the outlet that Kaplan had been hospitalized in New York City on December 31 and died there.
As friends and fans continue to grieve, tributes have poured in honoring Kaplan not only for his talent, but for the love, humor, and loyalty he brought into the lives of those closest to him.