I’m saddened to share the devastating news that former “Naked and Afraid” contestant Sarah Danser has passed away at the young age of 34 following a car crash in Hawaii.
The Tragic Accident
According to the Honolulu Police Department, the incident occurred on Sunday, October 20th, in the Kahala area of Honolulu. The driver, a 59-year-old man, lost control of the car and collided with a parked vehicle, rushing Danser, a passenger in it, to the hospital in critical condition.
Tragically, Danser succumbed to injuries on Tuesday, October 22nd. The driver of the car was also hospitalized in serious condition, while a woman in the parked vehicle was also injured and taken to the hospital.
Police have indicated that speed was a factor in the crash, but drugs and alcohol did not appear to be involved.
Remembering A Free-Spirited Adventurer
Sarah Danser was known for her free-spirited and adventurous nature. The Colorado native had made her home in Hawaii for the past 12 years, living on a boat at Kewalo Basin and working as a boat captain, scuba diver, and survivalist.
In 2017, Danser gained national attention when she appeared as a contestant on the survival reality series “Naked and Afraid.” She later returned for the spin-off “Naked and Afraid XL” in 2018, and most recently competed on “Fight to Survive” in 2023.
Danser’s brother, Jake Danser, described her as “magical,” saying she had a “positive energy about her that just really filled the environment that she was in.” Her father, Dan Danser, shared that she had even saved his life once while diving in Indonesia.
Tributes From Colleagues And Costars
Following the tragic news, Danser’s former “Naked and Afraid” co-star Melissa Lauren paid tribute, calling her “one of the most adventurous souls I’ve ever met.”
“She wasn’t only a fierce survivalist on ‘Naked and Afraid’ (she completed XL in South Africa with me), but a breast cancer survivor who kept an inspiring and positive attitude through her treatment,” Lauren wrote. “Rest easy, Sarah; I know you’re out there exploring somewhere.”
Island Divers Hawaii, Danser’s employer, also expressed their heartbreak on Facebook, writing: “With heavy hearts, we bid farewell to a good friend and great captain.” Sarah brought such amazing energy to everyone she came in contact with. You will be greatly missed.”
A Life Cut Short, But Leaving A Lasting Impact
Sarah tragically lost her life at the age of 34. But in her short time, she left an indelible mark on those around her, inspiring with her adventurous spirit, positive attitude, and genuine care for others.
As her brother Jake so eloquently put it, Danser had a “magical” quality about her that uplifted everyone she encountered. And her father’s revelation that she had once saved his life underscores the profound impact she had on the lives of the people she loved.
Though Danser is no longer with us, her legacy as a fierce competitor, skilled adventurer, and caring friend and family member will undoubtedly live on. The outpouring of tributes from her “Naked and Afraid” castmates and colleagues serves as a testament to the indelible impression she left on all who knew her.
While the circumstances of her passing are heartbreaking, Sarah Danser’s story reminds us to embrace life’s adventures with the same enthusiasm and zest that she did. Her spirit will continue to inspire those she left behind, even though she passed away too soon.
Table of Contents