Yahoo Lifestyle Laurin Bell, former “Jeopardy ”contestant, dies at 41
Bell appeared on a 2023 episode of the long-running game show, charming viewers with her quick wit.
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Laurin Bell on 'Jeopardy' in 2023Laurin Bell, a memorable contestant on a 2023 episode of Jeopardy, has died at the age of 41.
The Polk County Medical Examiner's office confirmed to Entertainment Weekly that Bell died on March 23, that an autopsy has been performed, and that toxicology testing has been ordered.
The Lakeland, Fla. resident's cousin, Kristen Joyner, announced her death on Facebook on Monday. "It is with a heavy heart that we have to let everyone know Laurin Bell decided to end her life last night. She was a brilliant, funny, and beautiful soul. Please keep everyone in your thoughts and prayers as they process this loss," she wrote.
Joyner shared a screenshot of a post shared from Bell's Facebook account that read, "Well everyone, I'm signing off from life. See you on the other side." The post does not include a date.
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Joyner noted that Bell's dog, Kinley, was taken to a shelter in Polk County. "If anyone is willing to take her in please let me know, she is 14 years old and not good with other dogs, but is friendly with everyone and cats. She's a great companion and needs love... She has 10 days," she wrote.
Bell frequently posted about her dog on her Facebook account, as well as raised money for causes benefitting animal welfare. In May 2019, Bell asked her followers to donate to the Old Friends Senior Dog Sanctuary in Mount Juliet, Tenn in honor of her birthday. "I've chosen this nonprofit because their mission means a lot to me, and I hope you'll consider contributing as a way to celebrate with me," she wrote.
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Laurin Bell competes on 'Jeopardy' in 2023Related: Chuck Woolery, Love Connection and original Wheel of Fortune host, dies at 83
Bell appeared on the Feb. 14, 2023 episode of the long-running NBC game show. She vied against fellow newcomer Blaine Smith to defeat the returning champion, Kendra Westerhaus.
Though Bell did not prevail over her opponents, Jeopardy fans have taken to social media to share their memories of her sharp wit and memorable answers during her appearance on the show.
If you or someone you know is considering suicide, please contact the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988, text "STRENGTH" to the Crisis Text Line at 741741 or go to 988lifeline.org.
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