Lara Spencer has bravely opened up about the heart-wrenching grief she’s been navigating since the passing of her mother, Carolyn Von Seelen, on February 13 at the age of 85. The TV personality, who has been facing emotional turmoil, shared her raw experience in an emotional social media post that has touched the hearts of her fans and colleagues. 
The “Good Morning America” host posted a series of intimate photos, with one standout image showing her and co-host Sam Champion sharing a warm embrace by the pool in Miami. In the photo, Lara holds on to a stuffed monkey—a quirky companion she’s been using as a source of comfort during this difficult time.
Lara Spencer Gets Real About Grief and Healing Process with ‘GMA’ Family
In her heartfelt caption, Lara admitted to struggling with the “fog of grief” but expressed immense gratitude for her “GMA family” for supporting her through it all. Despite the cold 42-degree temperatures in Florida, the crew made Lara feel loved and warm. She said, “Finally coming out of the fog of grief and so grateful to my GMA family—making me feel warm and loved—even in 42-degree temps in Florida.” 
Lara continued, “No one I would rather be stranded with than this guy [Sam]. We huddled around the heat lamp, collaborated on making the show as fun and energetic as possible, and even took a page from Punch the monkey’s book—giving our stuffie a squeeze when needed.”
The post also featured candid moments of the crew sharing lighthearted moments by the pool, with one particularly charming image showing the stuffed monkey sunbathing alone. Lara expressed her love for her colleagues, saying, “Thank you GMA family. I love you.” 
The post sparked an outpouring of love and support from Lara’s fans and friends, with co-host Sam Champion writing, “The BEST time with you always,” and Deborah Roberts sending four heart emojis. One fan shared their own grief, commenting, “Sending love and prayers to you and your family. Grieving is long and hard and whittles away at your soul. I know bc I’m going through it also. Surrounding yourself with people that love you and understand is the best medicine.”
Fans continued to express their condolences and well-wishes, with one person writing, “So sorry for your loss, Lara. The connection you have with Sam is so fun to watch. Take care,” and another commenting, “Sending so much love to you Lara. Makes me so happy to see you feeling better. Nothing like family.” 
Lara had previously shared a deeply moving tribute to her mother online, speaking candidly about the overwhelming sadness she feels in the wake of her loss. She opened up about how much she misses her mom daily, especially after Carolyn completed her treatment for a brain tumor in 2024.
Lara shared a quote from her mom, which she often used to offer strength during tough times: “Don’t be sad it’s over, honey—be grateful it happened.” Lara wrote, “Sorry mama but there’s no way to not feel the pain of overwhelming sadness at the thought of not having you to share life with each day, but we sure are grateful YOU happened and showered with your love, warmth, and humor.”
Lara Spencer’s journey of healing continues to inspire, as she opens up about grief and the importance of leaning on loved ones during times of loss.
