Devastated former The Block contestants Kirsty Lee Akers and Jesse Anderson have paid tribute to Jon-Jeremy – known best as Jon Jon – who died suddenly at age 42.

Kirsty and Jesse, who starred in last year’s season of the home reno show, worked closely with Jon during their time on the show.

‘We were lucky enough to meet Jon and work with him on The Block last year,’ the couple told Daily Mail Australia in a statement.

“He was such a lovely, hard-working guy. He thought it was funny how tiny Kirsty was compared to all the tradesmen working on our house and suggested she get on the concrete pump and have a go herself.

“Of course, he had to stand behind her and make sure she didn’t take off into the air with the pump!

“He had a very kind and caring nature. We are devastated to hear the news of his passing and are thinking of his family at this time.”

Love Film & TV?

Get your daily dose of everything happening in music, film and TV in Australia and abroad.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Kirsty Lee Akers (@kirstyleeakers)

The Block aired a tribute to the late tradie at the conclusion of Sunday night’s episode, featuring a photo of Jon Jon and the caption: “In memory of Jon Jeremy Bradey, 1980-2022.”

Jon’s cause of death hasn’t been revealed. He leaves behind his wife, Candice Howman, and their three children, Anileese, Kobe and Amelia.

Following her husband’s death, Candice said she was “overwhelmed” by the support amid her family’s tragic loss.

“We are completely overwhelmed with the outpouring of love, support and prayers and from the bottom of our hearts we thank you dearly,” she said.

The Herald Sun reported that Reece Daniltchenko from Franklin Pools said that the entire industry was “shocked” over Jon Jon’s sudden death.

“Jon Jon was a devoted husband, father and friend, anything could be achieved when you had him in charge, which I had the privilege of witnessing first-hand,” he said

“To have the opportunity to work with someone so reliable, trustworthy and a leader to his team, always gave me the confidence knowing that the end result will be delivered.

“A true legacy the great man has left behind, and the A Plus Enterprises team will no doubt uphold and has the full support and trust of everyone behind them.”

For more on this topic, follow the Film & TV Observer.

Get unlimited access to the coverage that shapes our culture.
to Rolling Stone magazine
to Rolling Stone magazine