Survivor’s oldest female finalist Kim Johnson has died as stars from the reality show pay tribute.
Johnson was 56 when she declared the runner-up on Survivor season 3, Survivor: Africa, filmed in Kenya in 2001.
Her death aged 79 was announced by her daughter Kerry Johnson Tich in a statement shared with People.
She said: ‘Our mom leaves a legacy of strength, resilience, kindness and generosity.
‘She wore her rose colorized glasses right up until the end. She was the coolest mom and grandmother in the world. We will miss her forever…’
The cause or place of death has not been revealed.
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Survivor host Jeff Probst was among those paying tribute to Johnson, writing on Instagram: ‘Kim was a pioneer on Survivor and we are deeply sorry to learn of her passing.
‘She still holds the record for the oldest woman to ever win an immunity challenge, earned her place in the final two and even received votes to win the game.
‘I remember even then at just 56, how inspiring she was to other “older” people because she showed that age was merely a number and that if you were willing to risk failing you might just amaze yourself.
‘She definitely left her mark on the game and on all of us who were lucky enough to work on that season and tell her story.
He signed off the tribute: ‘Jeff Probst and the entire Survivor & CBS team.’
The winner of Johnson’s series Ethan Zohn also remembered her on Instagram.
He wrote: ‘Rest in peace Kim Johnson. It was a blessing to call you my friend and a privilege to experience the final tribal council with you. I will forever have that planters punch in your honor!’
Johnson’s fans also paid tribute to her in Zohn’s comments section with @eaglemama80 writing: ‘So sad. I just rewatched that season, and I was so impressed by Kim. I am in my 60s now and was just amazed by how fit she was at that age. Sorry for the loss of your friend.’
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@jacobelyacher said: ‘RIP to one of my all-time favorite Survivor OGs! Thinking of Kim’s family, friends & the Survivor community at this time.’
@malloryyyyyyyy_penned: ‘This one hurts. She was a good one. 💔 I’m so sorry for your loss, Ethan.’
@realityTV_fan also added: ‘RIP to an absolute legend.’
Prior to joining Survivor, Johnson was a retired school teacher from Cleveland, Ohio.
She was also a league coordinator for an indoor tennis club and the owner of a sportswear boutique.
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Johnson is survived by her three children Kerry, Wendy and Teddy.
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