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Race Across the World Star Jo Gardiner Dies at 61
24 Aug
Summary
- Jo Gardiner, a fan favorite from Race Across the World, has passed away at 61.
- She died after a lengthy and brave fight against cancer.
- Her death follows the tragic loss of her son, Sam, in a car crash last year.

Jo Gardiner, widely beloved for her appearance on the second season of Race Across the World, has died at the age of 61. Her family confirmed that she passed away following a long and courageous battle with cancer. This profound loss for her loved ones occurs a year after the tragic death of her son, Sam, in a car crash in 2025.
Jo and Sam Gardiner captivated audiences as they traversed Latin America for the BBC reality competition series. Their transformative journey in 2020 saw them finish in fourth place, endearing them to viewers. Studio Lambert and the BBC remembered Jo as an integral part of the show's fabric.
Her family described her as someone who lived "fully, fiercely" and possessed an "extraordinary magnetism." The production team highlighted her passion for life, kindness, strength, and deep devotion to her family, especially Sam. Jo became a maternal figure to the cast, leaving a lasting legacy.