Content warning: This story discusses suicide.
The Jeopardy! community has lost a memorable contestant.
Laurin Bell—who competed on the long-running game show in 2023—has died by suicide, according to her loved ones. She was 41.
“It is with a heavy heart that we have to let everyone know Laurin Bell decided to end her life last night,” her friend, Kristen Joyner, wrote in a March 24 Facebook post. “She was a brilliant, funny, and beautiful soul. Please keep everyone in your thoughts and prayers as they process this loss.”
Alongside the tribute, Kristen included a photo of the former contestant—who was an executive assistant—smiling during her appearance on Jeopardy!’s 30th season. She also shared that Laurin’s 14-year-old dog, Kinley, was relocated to a shelter in Polk County, Florida, and that she has “10 days” to find a new home.
Several people offered their condolences to Laurin in the tribute’s comments, with many sharing advice on ways owners can rescue the pup before the deadline.
A spokesperson for the Florida Medical Examiner’s Office shared in a statement with the Daily Mail that “an autopsy has been performed and toxicology testing is underway.” They also confirmed to the U.S. Sun that Laurin died on March 23.
E! News has reached out to the Polk County Medical Examiner’s Office for more information.
Laurin appeared on the iconic franchise—which is now hosted by Ken Jennings, who took over for the late Alex Trebek in 2021—in February 2023.
At the time, she and contestant Blaine Smith competed against popular Jeopardy! champion Kendra Westerhaus. And while Laurin didn’t advance to the next level, she left a lasting impression on the show’s audience.
