dddIn a shock to the world, Grant Imahara, the popular host ofMythbustersand Netflix’sThe White Rabbit Project, has died at age 49. He was also known for his appearance on the television showBattle Botsin 2018, as well as starring in a fan-created web seriesStar Trek Continues.
Imahara passed away suddenly from a brain aneurysm, shocking his close family and friends. In a statement on Monday toThe Hollywood Reporter, a representative for The Discovery Channel said: “We are heartbroken to hear this sad news about Grant. He was an important part of our Discovery family and a really wonderful man. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family.”
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Grant started his career as an engineer for Lucasfilm’s THX and visual effects divisions, working on films such as theStar Warsprequels,The Lost World: Jurassic Park, andThe Matrix ReloadedandRevolutions. He also worked as a model maker on various films, before starting atMythbusterson Discovery, after being invited to join their team by a colleague and friend, Jamie Hyneman.
His presence on theMythbustersBuild Teamwas always a fan favorite, creating many of the robotics required for the show, as well as leading the charge on operating computers and electronics for experiments. The Build Team tackled many myths from pop culture and video games, trying to prove if the concepts seen on screen could translate to the real world. In most cases, the myths were busted by the hots of the show, but either way, the entertainment value ofMythbusterswas undeniable, as the show ran for 17 seasons.
Imahara departedMythbustersin 2014 along with a few of his fellow cast members, with whom he createdThe White Rabbit Projectfor Netflix in 2016. The show investigated a wide variety of topics, from heists to technology and even strange weapons from World Wars.
The world is shocked at the news, taking to social media to express their emotions. FormerMythbustersco-star Adam Savage stated: “I’m at a loss. No words … Working with Grant was so much fun … I’ll miss my friend,” amongst an outpouring of support from fans of the show and Imahara’s past work. It is no doubt that Grant’s work in the industry will be remembered for years to come, and his memory will live on in the hearts and minds of the people who loved his work.
