Justin Johnson, who appeared on the reality television series Love During Lockup, died at the age of 35 while incarcerated. Authorities confirmed that Johnson died by suicide on July 12, 2025, at State Correctional Institution – Houtzdale. News of his death was later revealed to viewers during the March 6, 2026 season finale of the show, leaving fans and loved ones shocked and saddened.
Johnson became known to audiences through his relationship with Emily, a 26-year-old woman from Nevada who appeared alongside him on the series. The program, broadcast on WE tv, follows couples navigating romantic relationships while one partner is serving time in prison. Their storyline focused on the emotional challenges they faced, including tension surrounding Emily’s work at a legal brothel and Johnson’s struggles to accept it. Despite these difficulties, the couple tried to maintain their relationship during his incarceration.
Emily revealed the tragic news during the season finale, explaining that she initially learned about Johnson’s death through a Snapchat message from someone connected to the prison. The message included a photo and informed her that he had died. At first, she found it hard to believe, but the information was later confirmed, along with the determination that Johnson had taken his own life.
According to reports and Johnson’s online obituary, he had been dealing with ongoing mental health challenges while in custody. Friends and family remembered him as a kind and talented individual with a gentle personality.
His death has sparked conversations about mental health care in correctional facilities and the emotional struggles faced by incarcerated individuals.