Australian Ninja Warrior: Dead contestant shown during grand final

CLIPS of a Ninja Warrior contestant who died before the series aired were shown during the final, leaving viewers confused.

SOME Ninja Warrior viewers were confused during last night’s grand final over the appearance of dead contestant Johann Ofner on the leaderboard.

The 28-year-old stunt double died six months ago when he was shot in the chest with what was thought to be a prop gun while filming a music video for hip-hop group, Bliss n Eso.

Before his death in January, Ofner had competed in Australian Ninja Warrior which was filmed last December on Cockatoo Island in New South Wales.

None of Ofner’s attempts at completing the Ninja Warrior course were shown but instead a short tribute to the aspiring actor aired during Ninja Warrior on July 16.

Johann Ofner alongside fellow contestants and Nine commentator Andrew Flintoff. Pic: Nine

“Production company Endemol Shine Australia and Channel Nine have decided to feature an on-screen in memoriam dedication to Johann Ofner rather than show his runs in the program,” a Ninja Warrior spokeswoman told TV Week at the time.

“We have been in close contact with his next of kin, who are supportive of this decision. We have the utmost respect for Johann and his involvement in Ninja Warrior, and we want to honour his memory in the most appropriate way.”

But Ofner made another appearance during last night’s grand final.

Johann Ofner was shown on the leaderboard after stage one during last night's grand final.

The 28-year-old’s face was shown on the leaderboard which revealed that he had finished fifth in stage one of the final.

Some viewers were confused to see a contestant they didn’t know about on the leaderboard whereas others expressed their sadness that such a talented man had died.

Sad to see Johann Ofner's name on the leaderboard but not included in the show. #NinjaWarriorAu

— Tee Pee (@tania_price72) July 25, 2017

Strange that #NinjaWarriorAU still had Johann Ofner on the scoreboard & in the wrap up with Freddie but didn't acknowledge him.

— Trace. (@TraceTobes) July 25, 2017

Wow Johann Ofner made it all the way. Top 5 even. Wish they had shown his run throughout the stages. #NinjaWarriorAU

— P R E V (@prevlyon) July 25, 2017

Last night’s grand final failed to produce Australia’s first Ninja Warrior with none of the contestants being able to complete the second of three stages.

Applications are already open for the second season of the show which was a hit with viewers during it’s three week run.

If you think you’ve got what it takes you can apply here. Applications are open until September 3.

Originally published as Australian Ninja Warrior: Dead contestant shown during grand final