“The Amazing Race” executive producers Bertram van Munster and Elise Doganieri are “deeply saddened” about former contestant Dr. Jim Raman‘s death, the pair said in a statement on Friday.
“We are shocked & deeply saddened to hear of Jim’s passing. He was a wonderful & very kind person. ‘The Amazing Race’ family has suffered a huge loss. Our thoughts & prayers are with his wife, Misti, & his entire family,” read the statement.
“We are shocked & deeply saddened to hear of Jim’s passing. He was a wonderful & very kind person. THE AMAZING RACE family has suffered a huge loss. Our thoughts & prayers are with his wife, Misti, & his entire family.”-Bertram van Munster & Elise Doganieri, Exec Prods pic.twitter.com/yg4q7Rid4E
— The Amazing Race (@AmazingRaceCBS) March 15, 2019
Raman, who was 42, was pronounced dead early Tuesday morning in his South Carolina home after authorities were called. A cause of death was not released, but foul play is not suspected, according to Lexington County Coroner Margaret Fisher. “Nothing suspicious or criminal is involved with the case you are referencing and out of compassion and respect for family, my office will not comment on it,” she said.
SEE Jim Raman, former ‘Amazing Race’ contestant, dead at 42
Raman and his wife Misti came in second place on Season 25 of the Emmy-winning series in 2014. Both dentists — they jokingly nicknamed each other Molar and Cuspid in the season finale — they won five legs, the most of any team during the season. Their goal was to eclipse the record eight won by Rachel and Dave in Season 20. Though they were clearly the strongest racers of the season, the Ramans lucked out and were never U-Turned during their run.
After the show, the couple, who have two children, Lexi and Jimmy, returned to South Carolina and continued working at their dental practice, Irmo Smiles. The practice released a statement paying tribute to Raman, and informed patients that their appointments will be rescheduled for a later date.
“Irmo Smiles has suffered a tragic loss this week. It is with deep sadness that we share the news of the passing of Dr. Jim Raman. As our staff and the family prepare for Dr. Raman’s celebration of life, please join us in praying for peace and comfort during this difficult time,” the statement read. “We will be working to reschedule Dr. Misti Raman’s patients and we apologize for any inconvenience this may cause you. Your patience is greatly appreciated as we give Dr. Misti Raman time to grieve the loss of her loving husband.”
