‘Love During Lockup’: What Happened to Justin Johnson?
Friday’s episode of Love During Lockup featured a devastating development for two of the show’s cast members.
Emily, a 26-year-old professional sex worker, and Justin, her inmate boyfriend, opened up about their relationship during 2026 season of the We TV reality series. Their storyline revolved around Emily’s work at a legal brothel in Nevada and Justin’s difficulty accepting her chosen career.
Justin Johnson from ‘Love During Lockup’ died in 2025
Sadly, Justin’s story has ended on a tragic note. The 35-year-old died by suicide in prison, Emily explained in the March 6 season finale. The mom of one learned the news via Snapchat from a friend who works at the facility where he was incarcerated.
“She just sends me a picture and says ‘Justin’s dead. I’m so sorry.’ I didn’t believe her. I was like, ‘No. No he’s not.’ Like there’s no way. Why? How?” she shared.
“I’m so in shock still. Nothing makes sense,” Emily added in an interview with a producer. “It’s been confirmed. They did the autopsy that it was intentional and he died by suicide.”
Emily couldn’t wrap around her boyfriend’s actions, though she wondered if his mother’s history of mental illness might have played a role.
“It really doesn’t make sense why he would pick now,” she said. “None of it’s ever going to make sense.”
“This wasn’t how this was supposed to end,” she said later. “This wasn’t supposed to happen.”
Justin’s loved ones remember him as a ‘gentle spirit’ and ‘incredible talent’
According to an online obituary, Justin Johnson died on July 12, 2025, “due to disregarded ongoing mental health issues at Houtzdale Prison” in Pennsylvania.
“Justin was known for his gentle spirit, incredible talent, and cheeky humor,” the tribute reads. “He was wise beyond his years and will always be remembered and loved deeply by all those that had the pleasure of knowing this beautiful soul.”
Justin was a “hardworking carpenter” and “jack of all trades” who had earned an associate’s degree in business. He was also a musician who loved singing and playing guitar, as well as drawing and activities such as hiking, fishing, and traveling.
“His life, characterized by love, laughter, and a wide range of interests, will be remembered fondly by all who knew him, as he held such a special place in the hearts of so many,” noted the obituary. “His absence will forever be deeply felt.”
Love During Lockup streams on All Reality and next day on AMC+
How to get help: In the U.S., call the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988 or 1-800-273-8255. Or text HOME to 741-741 to speak with a trained crisis counselor at the free Crisis Text Line.
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