In 2009, VH1 abruptly canceled the reality dating series Megan Wants a Millionaire after one of its contestants became the focus of a homicide investigation. The decision followed the death of Jasmine Fiore, the wife of contestant Ryan Jenkins, in a case that drew national attention and prompted renewed scrutiny of background checks for reality television participants.
The events remain one of the most widely discussed controversies in reality TV history.
Series
Megan Wants a Millionaire starred Megan Hauserman, who gained popularity through VH1 reality shows including Rock of Love with Bret Michaels, Rock of Love: Charm School, and I Love Money.
Known for her outspoken personality, Hauserman became one of the network’s most recognizable reality television figures. VH1 launched the dating series as part of its successful lineup of celebrity-centered competition shows during the late 2000s.
The program premiered in August 2009 but aired only a few episodes before being removed from the schedule.
Investigation
Shortly after the show’s debut, contestant Ryan Jenkins became the subject of a police investigation following the death of his wife, Jasmine Fiore.
According to authorities, Fiore’s body was discovered on Aug. 15, 2009, inside a suitcase left in a dumpster in Buena Park, California.
Jenkins and Fiore had married after filming for Megan Wants a Millionaire had concluded.
Police identified Jenkins as a suspect and launched a search for him.
Outcome
On Aug. 23, 2009, Jenkins was found dead in a motel room in British Columbia.
Authorities concluded that he died by suicide.
One day later, VH1 announced that Megan Wants a Millionaire would not return to the air. The network also canceled I Love Money 3, another completed reality series featuring Jenkins that had not yet aired.
Production
In a 2020 interview with Entertainment Weekly, 51 Minds co-founder Mark Cronin reflected on Jenkins’ appearance during filming.
Cronin said producers had noticed Jenkins displayed jealousy toward Fiore and believed those interactions would become part of the show’s storyline.
He later acknowledged that the situation took on a far more serious meaning after Fiore’s death.
Background
Reports that emerged after the investigation noted that Jenkins had previously been convicted in Canada in connection with an assault involving a former girlfriend in 2005.
The case raised questions about the background screening process used by reality television producers and networks when selecting contestants.
The incident prompted many production companies to reevaluate participant vetting procedures in the years that followed.
Legacy
The cancellation of Megan Wants a Millionaire marked a significant moment for reality television.
Networks increasingly strengthened psychological evaluations, criminal background checks, and contestant screening policies after the incident. While reality competition and dating programs continued to grow in popularity, the case became an example frequently referenced in discussions about production responsibility and participant safety.
Timeline
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| August 2009 | Megan Wants a Millionaire premieres |
| Aug. 15, 2009 | Jasmine Fiore found dead |
| Aug. 23, 2009 | Ryan Jenkins found dead |
| Aug. 24, 2009 | VH1 cancels the series |
The cancellation of Megan Wants a Millionaire remains one of the most significant moments in reality television history. While the series was intended to expand VH1’s successful lineup of dating shows, the tragic events surrounding one contestant permanently changed its legacy and influenced how reality TV productions approach contestant screening and safety.
FAQs
Why was Megan Wants a Millionaire canceled?
A contestant became a suspect in a homicide case.
Who starred in the VH1 dating show?
Reality television personality Megan Hauserman.
Who was Ryan Jenkins?
He was a contestant on the canceled series.
Did VH1 cancel any other shows?
Yes, I Love Money 3 was also canceled.
Did the case affect reality TV casting?
Yes, it led to stricter screening practices.
