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Big Brother star Rebekah Shelton passes away suddenly aged 32

Published 11:52 12 Jan 2018 GMT

Updated 18:02 12 Jan 2018 GMT

Jade Hayden

Big Brother star Rebekah Shelton passes away suddenly aged 32

This story has now been updated. See here.

Reports emerged today that Big Brother star Rebekah Shelton has died suddenly at the age of 32. The Brazilian transgender star passed away "unexpectedly" on Wednesday night. A statement posted on her Twitter account read:

"We’re sorry to inform every one of the sad news that our wonderful and lovely Rebekah died unexpectedly on Wednesday night.

"We ask that you respect the family's privacy at this time."

We’re sorry to inform everyone of the sad news that our wonderful and lovely Rebekah died unexpectedly on Wednesday night. We ask that you respect the family's privacy at this time.
— Rebekah Shelton (@MissRShelton) January 12, 2018

It was later revealed by Rebekah herself via a video that her Twitter had been hacked and that she was still alive. The tweet in question has since been deleted. Rebekah appeared on Big Brother in 2009 pre-transition as Rodrigo Lopes. She made a considerable impression on the reality TV programme, known primarily for her on and off relationship with fellow housemate Charlie.

Rebekah underwent gender reassignment surgery in 2014. After living as a trans woman for two years prior, she announced the news on social media saying: "I’ve had my sex change in Rio with Dr Marcio Littleton." She told OK! Magazine at the time:

"My advice to anyone considering transition would be think very carefully about your decision. "I am the happiest I’ve ever been in myself, but I lost so much along the way."

https://twitter.com/MissRShelton/status/932147734487867393

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