Bachelor in Paradise star Jake Ellis has shared the news that his beloved dad Brian Ellis has died in a heartbreaking Instagram post.
Taking to Instagram on Friday, Jake, 34, shared a black and white photo of himself, his dad Brian and brother Luke.
“At 8:15pm last night we sadly lost our Amazing Dad, Brian. Our hearts are broken yet again but are trying to take solace in that he is no longer fighting or in any pain,” Jake captioned the post.
“My brother Luke, myself and loved ones have been by his side during this devastating time, sharing memories of the beautiful Man, father and husband that he was, he lived an amazing life loved by so many.”
The Bachelorette and Bachelor in Paradise contestant finished by saying: “With all of our broken hearts we were so lucky to have him as our Dad and role model. We know that right now he’s back with the love of his life, our Mum and they are both watching over their sons with smiles. Thank you to everyone for all the love and support it means so much to us both,” followed by the hashtag #family.
Jake’s fans and followers were quick to share their love and sympathetic messages in the comments section.
“So sorry for your loss Jake. Thinking of you through this difficult time. Sending lots of strength your way,” one penned.
“I’m so sorry to hear of the loss of your beloved Dad. I’m sure he will now look down on you and your brother with your Mum by his side with absolute pride and love,” another wrote.
Georgia Love, who was the Bachelorette during his season and who lost her own mother to cancer commented: “Oh Jake, I’m so so sorry. Life has been so cruel to you boys and your beautiful parents. I am only thankful he is with Robbie and the knowledge they will both be so happy and proud of you. Big love, I’m so sorry.”
Jake and Luke lost their mum Robyn in January, 2018 after a 25 year battle with breast cancer which affected his relationship with Megan Marx, whom he met on the first season of Bachelor in Paradise.
In a previous chat with Who earlier this month, Jake explained that his dad’s deteriorating health was something of a wake-up call when it came to realising he wants marriage and kids.
“My dad Brian is very unwell with aggressive skin cancer and he also suffers from dementia. While I was in Fiji, I had a lot of time to think about what I wanted,” he said.
“Losing Mum so young and having issues with my dad made me realise life is short and that I should really fight for what I want in life. I realised pretty quickly while I was there that I had to try one more time to make it work with Megan.”
Jake recently starred on the third season of Bachelor in Paradise but left in an attempt to rekindle his romance with Megan.
“I want to say a massive thank you for all the love, support and well wishes I’ve received since last night!” Jake wrote on Instagram shortly after his final episode aired.
“Holy s*** what a whirlwind and totally unexpected. I have been incredibly lucky to be a part of The Bachelorette and Bachelor in Paradise twice now – I’ve shared some of the most beautiful parts of my life with you all but also some of my most heartbreaking. I led heart first and took chances. I made mistakes and have been judged for them, I’ve learnt and tried to grow.”
He added: “But more than anything I feel as if I have grown as a man, from Jake the Snake (lol) to a man who took a chance, stood there vulnerable and fought for love. To say that I am extremely fortunate to have had these experiences and support, is an understatement.”