Ryan Seacrest Mourns the Loss of His Father Gary After Battle With Cancer — He Was 79

Ryan Seacrest is grieving an unimaginable loss. 💔

The Wheel of Fortune and American Idol host announced that his beloved father, Gary Lee Seacrest, has died after a years-long battle with prostate cancer. He was 79 years old.

Taking to Instagram on Friday, Ryan shared an emotional tribute alongside a series of family photos, revealing that his father “peacefully passed away earlier this week.”

“We find comfort knowing he is in a better place and free of any pain or suffering,” Ryan wrote.
“Dad, you will live in our hearts forever. I love you.” ❤️

A Private Battle With Cancer

Earlier this year, Ryan opened up on On Air With Ryan Seacrest about his father’s difficult health journey, explaining that Gary had been privately fighting prostate cancer for years. Sadly, treatments offered little success.

Ryan also recalled one of the hardest moments of that period — learning during a live taping of American Idol that his father had been rushed to the ICU. He described the “life-or-death conversation” that followed with doctors as one of the most emotional moments of his life.

Despite the pain, Ryan often praised his father’s strength and optimism, calling him “the definition of courage and kindness.”

A Loving Family Man

Gary Seacrest is survived by his devoted wife of 55 years, Marie Zullinger, his son Ryan, his daughter Meredith Seacrest Leach, her husband Jimmy Leach, and their daughter Flora Leach.

Friends and fans from around the world flooded Ryan’s post with condolences and prayers, sending messages of love and gratitude for Gary’s lasting legacy.

Remembering Gary Seacrest

Known for his humility and quiet strength, Gary Lee Seacrest was more than a father to one of America’s most recognizable TV hosts — he was a mentor, a husband, and a man deeply dedicated to his family.

Though he is gone, his impact will continue to live through the values he instilled in his children and the love he shared for nearly six decades with his wife, Marie.

May he rest in peace. 🕊️