Mystery at Blind Frog Ranch star Duane Ollinger dies aged 68
Duane Ollinger, who starred in Discovery's Mystery at Blind Frog Ranch, has died at 68.
The sad news was confirmed by Ollinger’s friend and Mystery at Blind Frog Ranch co-star Ryan Skinner.
Skinner said Ollinger passed away at a Texas hospital ‘due to respiratory failure from pneumonia, while battling ALS disease’.
A family source since confirmed the news to TMZ.
Advert
In a post on Facebook, Skinner wrote: “Duane and I shared a long friendship and worked together on the Blind Frog Ranch that meant a lot to both of us.
"What I’ll remember most is his humour, his intelligence, and the way he could make light of any situation. He cared deeply about his family and was always willing to help others.
“He was a man of his word, a truly caring individual with a heart as big as Texas, and an open mind to both spirit and adventure.
“His presence and impact will be missed. My condolences go out to his family.”
The news was also shared by Emery Smith, who appeared on an episode of the show and worked at the ranch.
“He had relentless humor and we were always joking together even when people had no idea what it was about,” Smith wrote.
“We just smiled and just knew what each other was thinking. He was extremely kind and always helped others in need and was very giving to all. He loved his family tremendously and always put them first. His mission was leaving a legacy and helping others to the extent of supporting our projects for the betterment of humanity.”
Both men said Ollinger’s health had worsened in recent years.
The Discovery Channel shared a statement following the tragic news.
"Duane Ollinger leaves behind a legacy of curiosity and determination," a spokesperson told Entertainment Weekly.
"Through his work, he invited people along in his search for answers and the unknown. We share our condolences with his family, friends, and all who were part of his journey."
Ollinger appeared in Mystery at Blind Frog Ranch alongside his son Chad, with the show following their hunt for a hidden cache of lost Aztec gold that they believed was lying somewhere beneath their home in Arizona.
Ollinger was the original star of the show when it premiered in 2021, but he left at the end of season five, passing on the baton to Josh Feldman.
Claire Reid