Australian model Sahara Ray dies at 34, less than a year after giving birth

Key points

• Sahara Ray, an Australian model and influencer, died at age 34 over the weekend, according to her family.
• Her family stated she passed away in a hospital surrounded by loved ones, but did not reveal the cause of death.
• Ray was previously linked romantically to Justin Bieber and Cody Simpson and owned the swimwear brand Sahara Ray Swim.
• In 2024, Ray disclosed she was living with Guillain-Barré syndrome, a rare autoimmune condition that caused paralysis from her thighs to her feet.
• She developed the condition after a car accident and subsequent infection, but appeared to regain mobility before giving birth to her daughter Snow in early 2026.
• Tributes poured in on social media following the announcement, including from model Becky Hearn, who shared throwback photos of Ray.

Background

Sahara Ray rose to fame as a model and influencer, the daughter of Australian surfer Tony Ray. She launched her swimwear brand over a decade ago. In 2024, she publicly disclosed her diagnosis of Guillain-Barré syndrome, which left her primarily in a wheelchair. She later regained mobility and welcomed her first child, Snow, in early 2026. Her final social media post was in July 2026, featuring photos of her daughter. This news follows earlier coverage of her health struggles and recent celebrity activities, such as Justin Bieber's surprise performance in Los Angeles in September 2026.

Why it matters

The death of Sahara Ray highlights the unpredictable nature of rare autoimmune conditions like Guillain-Barré syndrome, which can lead to severe paralysis and long-term health challenges. Her story also underscores the personal struggles faced by public figures behind the scenes, as she openly shared her health battles and motherhood journey with her followers. The lack of a disclosed cause of death has led to speculation, but her family's statement emphasizes her loved ones' presence at her passing.

What to watch

There is no immediate next step regarding Sahara Ray's death, as the cause remains undisclosed. Tributes are expected to continue on social media from friends and followers. Her swimwear brand and legacy as a model and influencer will likely be remembered in the fashion and celebrity communities. No further official statements are anticipated unless the family chooses to release more information.