#SHOWBIZ: Amazing Race star and competitive eating legend Tim Janus dies at 49

Tim Janus, the former contestant of The Amazing Race and renowned competitive eater, has died at the age of 49 after a prolonged battle with cancer. He was famously known as "Eater X" in the competitive eating circuit. Janus passed away on September 16, as confirmed by his publicist through Major League Eating.

Janus made significant contributions to television screens in 2018 when he participated in season 30 of The Amazing Race alongside Joey Chestnut. The duo finished in eighth place. Beyond The Amazing Race, Janus appeared on various popular shows including True Life, Cash Cab, and Who Wants to Be a Millionaire.

Throughout his 12-year career in competitive eating from 2006 to 2018, Janus climbed to the second position globally. He was known for his distinctive Viking mask painted on his face during contests. His numerous victories include world titles for eating four pounds of tiramisu in six minutes, 10.5 pounds of ramen in eight minutes, and 141 pieces of sushi in six minutes. He also held the title of world burping champion, having produced an 18.1-second continuous burp.

Born in Connecticut, Janus pursued a degree in political science and public policy from Southern Methodist University before relocating to New York City. His life was marked by an eclectic range of pursuits, including tracking crocodiles and snakes in Australia and being recognized as a talented whistler. Although he initially aimed for a career in the United States Foreign Service, his journey took a different turn after his cancer diagnosis.

Major League Eating remembered Janus for his unique perspective on life and his love for the unconventional. They noted that he sought out experiences with an almost deliberate disregard for conventional norms. His roommate and fellow eater, Crazy Legs Conti, echoed similar sentiments, describing Janus as unique, brilliant, and beloved by his friends.