’90 Day Fiancé’ Star Ben Rathbun Dies After Cancer Battle

Ben Rathbun, best known for his appearance on season 5 of 90 Day Fiancé: Before the 90 Days, has sadly passed away at the age of 55. According to TMZ, the TLC reality star died on Monday, May 19, at his home in Greencastle, Indiana. His death comes after a private battle with stage 4 stomach cancer, which he had reportedly been fighting since late 2024.

A Journey of Love, Doubts, and Marriage

Ben was 52 when he first appeared on the show, where he was introduced to viewers as a divorced father of four who had fallen in love with a young woman named Mahogany Roca from Peru. Their relationship began online, but it quickly raised red flags. Mahogany had refused to video chat for months, leading friends, family, and even fans to believe Ben was being catfished.

Despite the initial doubts, Ben eventually traveled to Peru to meet Mahogany in person. Their story took an unexpected turn when the couple not only met but later tied the knot. On a 2024 episode of 90 Day Diaries, Ben shared how special their civil wedding was. “Our civil ceremony was just brilliant, I could not believe how beautiful it was,” he said, adding that they still planned to hold a religious ceremony in the future.

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But marriage wasn’t without its struggles. Ben admitted during the same episode that trust was still an issue and that financial hardship had made their transition even tougher. He spoke openly about being out of work for six months and struggling to keep up with bills while planning a return trip to Peru to see his wife.

Legal Troubles and Personal Responsibility

Before his marriage, Ben had faced legal challenges. In March 2022, he was arrested after failing to appear in court for a probation violation hearing. His legal troubles stemmed from a 2020 incident where he was charged with operating a vehicle while under the influence and driving with a suspended license. He was sentenced to 18 months’ probation in early 2021.

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When he missed the probation hearing, a bench warrant was issued for his arrest. Ben later explained that he had moved to a new state and missed the court notice due to the summons being sent to his old address. “This was my fault because I needed to make sure I was getting all notices,” he said at the time. “By the time I found out, it was too late.” Ben drove 14 hours to turn himself in and spent one night in jail.

Remembering Ben Rathbun

Ben’s story on 90 Day Fiancé was filled with ups and downs, from online romance and skepticism to love, marriage, legal issues, and a serious health battle. Despite facing criticism and personal setbacks, he remained committed to his relationship with Mahogany and tried to make things work.

Fans of the show will remember Ben for his emotional honesty, determination, and willingness to follow his heart even when the path wasn’t clear. He leaves behind four children and a story that many viewers followed with interest and compassion.

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His passing is a sad reminder of life’s unpredictability and the quiet struggles some people face behind the scenes.