‘Big Brother’ Former Contestant Cassandra Waldon Passed Away at 56

Cassandra Waldon, one of the houseguests on the first season of “Big Brother,” passed away at 56. The host of the reality show, Julie Chen, shared a touching message about it.

Waldon was the first contestant of the show to enter the one on the American version of it. She stayed on “Big Brother” for ten weeks and ended up in sixth place out of 10 participants.

Unfortunately, she passed away on September 25 from injuries related to a car accident in Rome, Italy. However, the news about her death was only reported recently.

According to TMZ, the former reality star was hit by a car about two months ago, getting a severe head injury. Despite doctors’ efforts, she could never regain consciousness before her death.  

Waldon was living and working in Rome at the UN as its Director of Communications for the International Fund for Agricultural Development when the accident happened. The funeral is expected to be held in Maryland next weekend.

Julie Chen, who has been the host of “Big Brother” since its debut in July 2000, took to Instagram to share a post remembering Waldon and announcing her death.

“Rest In Peace Cassandra. Your light will continue to shine in this world because of the way you lived your life: with class and grace. May your family and loved ones find solace and peace.”

Chen also thanked Waldon for bringing her “intelligence, warmth, and wisdom” to the “Big Brother” house on season one. She finally said that the former contestant was in her thoughts and prayers.

Speaking of Chen, it was recently announced that she signed a deal with CBS to be the host of the 22nd season of “Big Brother,” which is set to be released next summer.

Fans were worried about Chen’s continuity as she left “The Talk” following the sexual misconduct allegations against her husband, Les Moonves. However, it seems like the network and the host are in better terms, and fans are thrilled about it.