On the heels of the new season of Love During Lockup premiering on WeTV, one of the show’s stars has passed away. They were only thirty-five, and it has shaken up the cast as a whole. So, who has died, and what was the cause? Moreover, will it have an impact on the season that is about to start airing? Keep reading for all of the details that are currently known.
Love During Lockup Star Dead At 35
A Love During Lockup star has tragically passed away at the age of thirty-five. With these shows, it is very hit or miss, mainly because half of the cast has a rough background. They attempt to rehabilitate themselves upon being released, but can fall back on hard times. Their old ways creep back up on them, and it becomes a serious issue. At times, their struggles cannot be prevented, but sometimes, this is just a life they cannot escape. Lacitrus Asonta Gholston died right as his season was beginning, but he was not edited out.
Rather, the show went on, despite viewers knowing the outcome. This will be the same situation for Season 5 star Justin Johnson of Philipsburg, Pennsylvania. He will be on the series alongside his girlfriend, Emily Anthony, who is rough and tough. Justin is locked up for between 5 to 10 years due to a burglary conviction, but things took a turn in July of 2025. Per a release, he “was found unresponsive in his cell on July 12, 2025. Prison staff immediately responded and provided life-saving measures until emergency medical personnel arrived. Johnson was pronounced deceased at 8:04 p.m.”
After he passed, Justin’s death was under investigation, but nothing has been released. Despite his death, he will still be on Love During Lockup, and his love story will play out. It is likely that there will be a disclaimer at the beginning or end of the premiere alerting viewers. However, it is unclear how much of Emily and Justin will be seen in light of what occurred. Lacitrus was not edited out, so Justin could have the same experience.
Viewers React To His Passing
Love During Lockup viewers seemed very excited for the new season, which premieres in January 2026. Yet, did this death change anything? Moreover, what were their thoughts on Justin Johnson’s passing at just 35? They felt awful that his life ended in jail, and that was the focus:
- Sad he passed away i jail/prison
It also did not bode well that WeTV was still sharing his story despite what transpired:
- Wow the drama, that poor guy. And shame on wetv for still airing him knowing he died
It felt somewhat exploitative, but hopefully, there can be some resolution. Furthermore, may there be some beauty in his love story with Emily to appease fans.
Are you shocked that someone from this season has already passed away? Finally, will this steer you away from watching the new season of Love During Lockup? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
Amanda has been a professional freelance writer for over a decade, holding both a BA and an MA. Her passions include animals, iced coffee, gnomes, summer, music, and ‘Vanderpump Rules’.
