Race Across The World pays heartbreaking tribute to show star Sam Gardiner after tragic death age 24
RACE Across The World pays a heartbreaking tribute to former show star Sam Gardiner.
The former contestant passed away aged 24 after he was involved in a car crash.
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Sam Gardiner was involved in the second series of the hit BBC One factual entertainment programme.
He appeared on the show alongside his mum Jo, where the pair came in fourth place as they tried to make it to Argentina from Mexico.
They were forced to withdraw from the travel game after they ran out of money to finish the seventh leg.
At the end of tonight's episode, the programme paid tribute to the former contestant with an end card after the credits.
Producers displayed a poignant picture of Sam when he was on Race Across The World in his backpacking gear.
The caption that was emblazoned on the screen read: "In loving memory of Sam Gardiner.
"2000-2025."
Viewers took to X - formerly known as Twitter - as they were left in tears by the slide and praised the corporation for their end of episode tribute.
One user remarked: "Lovely tribute to Sam at the end."
A second posted the same displayed image on the screen as they wrote: "RIP Sam."
Moment Race Across The World's Sam Gardiner has emotional heart-to-heart with mum on BBC show as he dies aged 24
"Rest in peace to Sam Gardiner, who took part in series 2 with his Mum, Jo, back in 2020," commented a third viewer.
While a fourth said: "They gave Sam Gardiner an end card. Sad."
And a fifth user added: "The tribute to Sam Gardiner," along with a crying face emoji.
On Monday night, Sam had been driving on the A34 near Manchester.
Race Across The World - Winners so far
Since launching in 2019, BBC travel competition series Race Across The World has had four series to date. Let's take a look at back at the winners so far...
Series one: Elaine and Tony Teasdale: This married couple, who are retired PE teachers, won the very first series of Race Across The World.
Series two: Emon and Jamiul Choudhury: The uncle and nephew duo emerged victorious in the show's second outing.
Series three: Tricia Sail and Cathie Rowe: These lifelong friends became the first non-familial pair to win a series.
Series four: Alfie Watts and Owen Wood: Both aged 20, these friends bested four other pairs to win series four.
Greater Manchester Police said his car suddenly left the road and rolled over before it eventually landed on its side.
In an emotional tribute, his father Andrew said: "We are devastated by the loss of our beloved son Sam in a terrible accident.
"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."
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