When was Ben Rathbun diagnosed with cancer? Health struggles explored as 90 Day Fiancé star dies at 55

Ben Rathbun of the 90 Day Fiancé: Before the 90 Days fame has passed away, TMZ has confirmed. The news first appeared on an Instagram handle dedicated to TLC’s famous reality show. According to TMZ, a source confirmed that Rathbun was surrounded by his family when he passed away on Monday, May 19, at his Greencastle, Indiana home.

According to the media outlet, the reality TV star has been struggling with stage 4 stomach cancer since the end of last year. In November 2024, Ben Rathbun was apprehended by police, and his mugshots from the arrest were reposted on Instagram. The 90 Day Dairies star looked frail in the pictures, which sparked concern among social media users regarding his health.

In December 2024, it was reported that Ben Rathbun was diagnosed with cancer. His partner from 90 Day Fiancé: Before the 90 Days, Mahogany Roca, was reportedly by his side while the reality TV personality was trying to “make amends” with people. Shabootydotcom reported,

“Ben Rathbun Update: Saddening news. Ben has stage 4 cancer and he is too weak for chemo. His family is gathering to see him. Mahogany is by his side (and staying with his family during this difficult time). He is reaching out to people to make amends.”

They claimed to have confirmed the news of the diagnosis from multiple sources before reporting. Later, the Instagram page revealed that the reality TV star was suffering from stage 4 adenocarcinoma in the lining of his abdomen.

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Ben Rathbun was arrested last year and charged with failing to pay child support

Last year, the 90 Day Fiancé: Before the 90 Days star featured on 90 Day Diaries Season 5’s episode “S.O.S.” with Mahogany Roca and mentioned his financial struggles. Later in November, he was arrested by the authorities and charged with failing to pay child support. At that time, Mahogany was among the people supporting Rathbun while he was detained at an Oakland County Michigan jail.

In the following days, Ben faced another charge of felony embezzlement of $1,000-$20,000 from a non-profit or charitable organization. According to ScreenRant, the charges were leveled by his former employer. Amidst the reports of arrests, shab**tydotcom posted about Ben Rathbun's deteriorating health. Later, it was revealed that he was struggling with stage 4 cancer. Months after his diagnosis, Ben passed away at 55.

For those unaware, Rathbun first received the limelight after he appeared on 90 Day Fiancé: Before the 90 Days Season 5. The father of four was 52 at the time when he met Mahogany Roca on the show.