Australian model Sahara Ray dies at 34, months after childbirth

Key points

• Sahara Ray, an Australian model and influencer, died at 34 over the weekend, according to her family's statement to TMZ.
• The cause of death has not been publicly revealed, but she was surrounded by family at the hospital when she passed.
• Ray had previously disclosed in 2024 that she was living with Guillain-Barré syndrome, a rare autoimmune condition that left her paralyzed from the thighs down.
• She welcomed her first child, a daughter named Snow, in early 2026, just months before her death.
• Tributes poured in on social media, including from model Becky Hearn, who shared throwback photos and called Ray her 'sweet soul.'

Background

Sahara Ray, the daughter of Australian surfer Tony Ray, rose to fame as a model and influencer, and launched her swimwear brand, Sahara Ray Swim, over a decade ago. She was romantically linked to celebrities like Justin Bieber and Cody Simpson. In 2024, she revealed to followers that she was living with Guillain-Barré syndrome, which she developed after being hit by a car and contracting an infection. She was primarily in a wheelchair due to paralysis from the thighs down. Our archive notes that Ray welcomed her first child, Snow, in early 2026, just months before her death.

How outlets are covering it

TMZ reported the family's statement confirming Ray's death and that she was surrounded by family at the hospital. USA TODAY, via Yahoo News, highlighted her past romance with Justin Bieber and her battle with Guillain-Barré syndrome. Page Six noted that Ray's last public appearance was at a fashion show in November 2023 and that she had welcomed her daughter Snow in January 2026. All sources agree on her age at death (34) and the lack of a disclosed cause of death, but differ in emphasis: USA TODAY focuses on her celebrity connections and medical condition, while Page Six highlights her recent personal milestones and public appearances.

Why it matters

Sahara Ray's death at 34 underscores the impact of rare autoimmune conditions like Guillain-Barré syndrome on public figures and the personal toll of such illnesses. Her recent childbirth and public advocacy for her condition highlight the intersection of celebrity life, health challenges, and public support.

What to watch

The cause of death remains undisclosed, and no further official statements have been made. Tributes are expected to continue on social media as fans and peers mourn her passing. There is no indication of further public events or statements from her family at this time.