Aneesa Ferreira has faced some of the toughest physical and emotional moments on “The Challenge”—but nothing compares to this.
Just weeks before returning to MTV for season 41, the beloved competitor shared devastating news with fans: her father has passed away following a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease. Ferreira’s powerful tribute sparked an outpouring of support from the “Challenge” community, reminding fans that behind the eliminations and rivalries are very real people facing deeply personal losses.
‘The World Feels Quieter Without Him’: Aneesa Ferreira Shares an Emotional Tribute To Her Father
Ferreira revealed the news on June 27 through a heartfelt Instagram Story, writing, “With the heaviest heart, I share that my dad has passed away. He left this world peacefully, free from Alzheimer’s at last. I imagine him whole again — dancing among the stars.”
She added, “Even with that comfort, my heart feels broken. The world feels quieter without him. A part of me went with him when he left.”
Ferreira, who had been open about her father’s health, shared how painful the journey had been. Just 12 days earlier, she had posted a somber Father’s Day message, writing, “As some of you know, my dad has late-stage Alzheimer’s dementia. Watching someone you love go through this cruel disease is something I wouldn’t wish on anyone.”
She continued, “He can no longer walk or speak, and seeing him like this is heartbreaking. If you’re going through something similar, or if you’ve lost a parent, please know — I see you, I feel you, and my heart is with you today.”
Fellow castmates quickly rallied around Ferreira with love and support:
“Dad love 🙏💙,” wrote Derrick Kosinski.
“Sending you so much love, nushy!” added Tori Deal.
Tina Barta shared, “❤️ Hang in there, sister. You got this.”
Josh Martinez wrote, “Love you so much Neesi ❤️.”
“Sending love nees ❤️,” added Cara Maria Sorbello.
Ferreira has appeared in 18 seasons of “The Challenge,” making her the longest-running female competitor in the show’s history. Only Johnny Bananas and CT Tamburello have more appearances.
‘The Challenge’ Star Says She Is ‘Proud of How Far I’ve Come’ Ahead of Season 41
Despite her recent emotional blow, Ferreira is heading into season 41 stronger than ever. After years of enduring physical injuries and fan criticism, she has undergone a transformation that has both inspired and surprised her fans.
In early 2025, Ferreira shared a dramatic before-and-after post showing her body’s evolution from mid-2023 to January on Instagram. “These are constant reminders that keep fueling my fire!!!” she captioned. “Though it’s hard to post these, I’m so proud of how far I’ve come.”
She followed up with a powerful three-photo comparison from “The Challenge: Season 40,” “All Stars Season 5,” and her current look. “I’m getting older,” she said. “I need to be healthier and feel good.”
On April 20, she posted a workout video and doubled down on consistency: “If you’re on your journey and things seem to be moving in slow motion, KEEP GOING!!! Stay consistent and the benefits will come!!!!!”
Ferreira returns to MTV on Wednesday, July 30, at 8 p.m. ET/PT for the premiere of “The Challenge” season 41. A special kickoff episode airs July 23.
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‘The Challenge’ Star Grieves Father’s Death: ‘A Part of Me Went With Him’