Ryan Seacrest Announces the Death of His Dad, Gary Seacrest, at 81 — “I Love You”
Ryan Seacrest is mourning a devastating loss. The television host and radio personality shared on Friday, October 31, that his father, Gary Seacrest, has passed away at the age of 81. In an emotional post on social media, Ryan honored his father’s life and legacy with a simple but deeply heartfelt message: “I love you.”
For Ryan, who has long been one of television’s most familiar and upbeat figures, this loss carries profound meaning. Behind the bright lights of his career — hosting American Idol, Live with Kelly and Ryan, and his daily radio show On Air with Ryan Seacrest — family has always been his foundation. Over the years, Ryan often spoke about his parents, Gary and Connie, and the powerful example of love, discipline, and humor they instilled in him.
Gary Seacrest was more than just a proud father — he was a guiding force in Ryan’s life. A former U.S. Army major and later a real estate attorney, Gary was known for his strong work ethic and quiet wisdom, qualities that clearly shaped his son’s approach to life and success. Ryan often described his dad as his “moral compass” and a man who taught him the value of perseverance, respect, and humility.
In interviews, Ryan frequently credited his parents for supporting his dreams long before fame arrived. Growing up in Dunwoody, Georgia, he was a boy fascinated by microphones, music, and radio. While other kids were playing sports, Ryan was pretending to be a DJ in his bedroom. Instead of discouraging him, his parents cheered him on — even when it meant taking a chance on a teenage dream. His father, though practical by nature, was also deeply proud of Ryan’s ambition and drive.
In 2017, Ryan celebrated Father’s Day with a touching tribute to Gary on Instagram, writing that he was “the hardest-working man” he had ever known and that his guidance “made everything possible.” It’s clear from Ryan’s words now that the bond they shared remained just as strong until the very end.
Gary’s passing comes after years of health challenges. Ryan had previously shared that his father was diagnosed with prostate cancer several years ago but continued to fight with grace and optimism. The Seacrest family, including Ryan’s mother, Connie, and sister, Meredith, remained close throughout his treatment, supporting one another privately even as Ryan continued to balance his demanding career.
Those who know Ryan say that despite his high-profile life, his family has always been his anchor. He often spent holidays and birthdays with his parents, no matter how busy his schedule became. Even as he built a media empire, launching the Ryan Seacrest Foundation to support children’s hospitals across the country, he credited his dad’s values as the inspiration behind his philanthropic efforts.
Fans and colleagues have flooded social media with messages of love and sympathy since Ryan’s announcement, reflecting how deeply loved and respected he is — and how much his loss resonates beyond his family circle. Many noted that Gary Seacrest’s influence can be felt in Ryan’s kindness, professionalism, and relentless positivity, traits that have made him one of the most enduring figures in entertainment.
For Ryan, saying goodbye to his father is a private heartbreak, but his tribute — brief, simple, and full of love — says everything. “I love you” is all he needed to write. It’s the kind of message that captures a lifetime of gratitude, admiration, and affection in just three words.
As he grieves this loss, Ryan is surrounded by the same strength and compassion his father once showed him. The legacy of Gary Seacrest will live on — not only through his family but also through the values and kindness he passed on to his son, who continues to touch millions of lives every day.
