Former Reality Television Show Contestant Dies in Car Crash at 24
Sam Gardiner, who starred in the second season of the British reality television show Race Across the World, died Thursday from injuries suffered in a serious car accident earlier in the week.
Gardiner, 24, was driving his white Volkswagen on the A34 near Manchester Monday night when his car left the roadway and rolled before landing on its side, according to the Greater Manchester Police.
Gardiner was the only occupant of the vehicle. He was taken to the hospital with severe head injuries, where he remained until his death three days later.
In a statement, Gardiner's parents Jo and Andrew confirmed his tragic passing.
'We are devastated by the loss of our beloved son Sam in a terrible accident," the statement reads. "Sam left us far too soon, and whilst words will never fully capture the light, joy and energy he brought into our lives, we hold on to the memories that made him so special. Sam was adored by his family. As a son, brother and nephew, he was loyal, funny and fiercely protective.
'Sam brought warmth, laughter and a smattering of chaos wherever he went. He leaves behind a huge hole in our hearts. We will miss him endlessly, but we'll also remember him with smiles, tall tales, and a depth of love that will never fade'.
Sam, a landscape gardener, and his mother were contestants on Race Across the World, where they finished fourth out of five teams. The experience "opened his eyes to the wonder of adventure and travel," said Gardiner's parents.
"We are all deeply saddened to hear the tragic news about Sam," said a Race Across the World spokesperson. "Everyone who worked with him, and indeed everyone who watched Sam, could see just how precious and transformative the trip was for both him and his mum Jo."
We would also like to extend our condolences to Gardiner's family and friends during this difficult time.
Former Reality Television Show Contestant Dies in Car Crash at 24 first appeared on Men's Journal on Jun 1, 2025
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