Kim Johnson, 2002 'Survivor: Africa' runner-up, dies at 79: Reports

2024-12-26 01:11:39 source:lotradecoin instructions category:My

Kim Johnson, a retired elementary school teacher who was the runner-up on "Survivor: Africa" in 2002, has died, according to reports. She was 79.

Her children – Wendy, Kerry, and Teddy – confirmed the news to Entertainment Weekly and People on Monday.

"Our mom leaves a legacy of strength, resilience, kindness and generosity. She wore her rose colorized glasses right up until the end," they said in a statement to the outlets. "She was the coolest mom and grandmother in the world. We will miss her forever."

Jeff Probst, executive producer and host of the American "Survivor" franchise, paid tribute to Johnson in an Instagram post.

"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," he wrote. "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."

Need a break? Play the USA TODAY Daily Crossword Puzzle.

He continued, "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."

Ethan Zohn, the Season 3 winner of "Survivor," posted a highlight reel from their 2001-2002 series on Instagram and 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 lasted nearly 40 days in Kenya's Shaba National Reserve as she competed on the Boran tribe team alongside Zohn. Zohn, who ultimately won the $1,000,000 prize and title of sole survivor, went on to compete on "Survivor: All Stars" and "Survivor: Winners at War."

More:My

Recommend

Manager of pet grooming salon charged over death of corgi that fell off table

A manager of a home-based pet grooming salon appeared in a district court on Dec 11 over the death o

Video shows research ship's incredibly lucky encounter with world's largest iceberg as it drifts out of Antarctica

Britain's polar research ship has crossed paths with the largest iceberg in the world — an "incredib

Which four Republicans will be on stage for the fourth presidential debate?

File: (L-R) Former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, Former