South African television personality Ian von Memerty, who had openly shared his intention to end his own life through a series of social media posts, has died at the age of 61.
Von Memerty, a former judge on South Africa’s Got Talent and a host of the local edition of Strictly Come Dancing South Africa, passed away a week ago, according to a statement released by his family. The family did not disclose the cause of death.
“As a family we have done everything we can to love and respect him on his journey,” the statement read.
In the months leading up to his death, von Memerty had documented his thoughts about dying in a 15-part Facebook series. In the posts, he spoke openly about his fears of ageing, saying he did not want to endure physical decline, cognitive deterioration, financial hardship, or dependency on his loved ones.
His family confirmed that he died in Johannesburg in the early hours of last Monday. They asked the public for privacy as they mourned his loss. “We ask for privacy and respect as we deal with our own pain, having lost someone we’ve loved very much,” the post added.
Von Memerty’s decision to speak publicly about his plans sparked intense debate online. While some social media users defended his right to make decisions about his own life, others criticised him for sharing such personal intentions publicly. Several questioned how the disclosures might affect his family, with some calling the move “selfish”.
In one emotional video shared during the series, von Memerty described telling his family about his plans as “one of the worst days” of his life, becoming visibly distressed as he spoke.
Beyond his television career, von Memerty was also involved in theatre, acting in and directing stage productions. Later in life, he performed on cruise ships and worked as a pet sitter.
Born in Zimbabwe, von Memerty spent much of his life in South Africa, where he became a familiar face in entertainment circles.
