ans of TLC’s “Unexpected” first met Max Schenzel during Seasons 2 of the hit reality series alongside his then-girlfriend, Chloe Mendoza. The former couple documented the ups and downs of becoming teenage parents while raising their daughter, Ava, in front of cameras.
Throughout Max’s time on the show, viewers also got to know his father, Todd Schenzel, who frequently appeared alongside his son and played a major role in helping guide Max through some of the most difficult moments of his young adulthood.
Max Schenzel from Seasons 2 and 3 of TLC’s “Unexpected” took to Instagram on Saturday, May 23, 2026, to announce that his father, Todd Schenzel, had passed away on Friday. Max had previously shared with fans that his father was in hospice, following his diagnosis with stage 4 glioblastoma in April 2026.
‘Unexpected’ Fans Rally Around Max Schenzel Following The Loss
Fans took to social media to show Max support following the loss of his father.
Another fan commented, “Very sad, may God comfort the hearts of all family and friends.”
A third fan chimed in, writing, “This poor kid has been through so much.”
As “Unexpected” fans will remember, Todd was a single parent to Max. Max’s mother was not in the picture as she struggled with substance abuse, which was another key reason Todd was so alarmed when it was revealed that Max was also struggling with substance abuse during his seasons on “Unexpected.”
Luckily, it appears that Max has left that season of his life behind him in recent years, focusing on his health through bodybuilding and strengthening his faith.
Max Schenzel Previously Opened Up About His Father’s Cancer Battle
On April 11, 2026, Max took to Instagram to share with fans how he was dealing with his dad’s terminal diagnosis. The TLC alum wrote, “Life hit me harder than it ever has. Hearing my dad was diagnosed with stage 4 glioblastoma changed everything overnight. It’s been the toughest thing I’ve ever had to face… mentally, emotionally, all of it. But in the middle of all that pain, I made a choice — I’m not folding.”
While Max Schenzel now faces an incredibly difficult chapter following the loss of his father, many “Unexpected” fans are continuing to rally around him online. Supporters remain hopeful that the faith, fitness, and personal growth Max has spoken openly about in recent years will help guide him through the painful loss of the parent who stood by his side throughout so much of his life.
