Who is Kelsey Bateman? Rock of Love contestant dies ‘unexpectedly’ at 39

Reality TV personality Kelsey Bateman, best known for her appearance on the VH1 reality show Rock of Love, has tragically passed away at the age of 39.

According to TMZ, a family source confirmed she died “unexpectedly,” though details surrounding the cause and timing of her death have not been disclosed.

Bateman first rose to fame in 2009 on the third and final season of Rock of Love Bus with Bret Michaels, where she was one of 23 women competing for the Poison frontman’s affection. She was just 21 at the time. Despite reaching the final nine contestants, she was eliminated in the seventh episode after an incident involving heavy drinking with fellow cast members.

Reflecting on that moment during the show, she admitted: “I ended up laying on a speed bump balling my eyes out but you know what? I’m here and I’m ready for whatever Bret has to say to me.”

Bret Michaels, now 62, explained his decision, telling her: “I think you’re awesome and a beautiful girl and I said sometimes I have to make decisions for people, and my decision for you is that I’m going to let your tour end here.”

Although she later joked that the rock star couldn’t “handle a girl that likes to get drunk and lay on speed bumps,” Bateman swore off dating musicians, saying: “The next guy I find definitely won’t be 44 and probably not a rock star.”

While she stepped away from the spotlight after the show, Bateman reportedly kept in touch with her fellow contestants. News of her sudden passing has shocked fans, with tributes flooding social media. One wrote: “OMG can’t believe it,” while another added: “May she rest in peace.”