‘Race Across the World’ Star Jo Gardiner Dies After Long Cancer Battle

Jo Gardiner, who appeared on BBC’s Race Across the World with her son Sam, has died aged 61 after a long battle with cancer.

Her family confirmed her death in a statement, describing Jo as “our joy, our safe place and our absolute treasure.” They remembered her for her courage, kindness, humor and adventurous spirit, and asked friends and loved ones to celebrate her life by sharing stories, raising a glass and living life fully.

Jo and Sam, from Stockport, England, appeared on the second series of Race Across the World in 2020. The pair traveled from Mexico City to Ushuaia in Argentina, with Jo saying she wanted to help her son explore the world and grow in confidence.

The show’s team paid tribute to Jo, remembering her “passion for life, her kindness, her strength” and her devotion to her family. They said she became the “matriarch” of the show’s cast family and would be deeply missed.

Jo’s death comes about a year after Sam died aged 24 following a car crash in Manchester. His Volkswagen left the road and rolled on May 26, 2025. He died in hospital three days later from his injuries.

Jo and her husband, Andrew, previously described Sam as bringing “warmth, laughter and a smattering of chaos” into their lives. Jo is survived by her son Charlie.