RHOC Alum Speaks Out After Ex-Husband's Passing
Former 'Real Housewives of Orange County' star Elizabeth Lyn Vargas is publicly mourning the loss of her ex-husband, Norwegian business magnate Bernt Bodal, who died following a courageous battle with cancer. The 47-year-old reality television personality took to social media to share her heartfelt condolences and reflect on their shared history.
"Bernt was blessed to have his wonderful wife by his side during his final journey," Vargas stated in her emotional tribute. "Despite our past, I will always remember the good times we shared and the father he was to our family."
A Business Empire Built on Success
Bodal, 63, was best known as the former CEO of American Seafoods Company, one of the largest seafood corporations in North America. Under his leadership from 2001 to 2017, the company grew to generate over $500 million in annual revenue and employed more than 1,000 workers across multiple fishing vessels and processing facilities.
The Norwegian-born entrepreneur first arrived in the United States in the 1980s with ambitious dreams of expanding his family's fishing business. His strategic vision transformed American Seafoods into a dominant force in the Alaskan fishing industry, with operations spanning from the Bering Sea to the Gulf of Alaska.
Reality TV Romance and Tumultuous Split
Vargas and Bodal's relationship became public knowledge when she joined the cast of 'Real Housewives of Orange County' for its 15th season in 2020. During her time on the Bravo series, viewers witnessed the dramatic unraveling of their marriage, which had lasted nearly a decade.
The couple's divorce proceedings, finalized in 2021, were notably contentious and played out partially on national television. Court documents revealed disputes over their $30 million Newport Beach mansion and Bodal's extensive business holdings. Vargas alleged emotional abuse during their marriage, while Bodal's representatives maintained that the split was amicable.
"The cameras captured some of our most difficult moments," Vargas reflected in a recent interview. "But there was also genuine love there, and I don't want people to forget that."
A Private Battle with Cancer
Sources close to the family revealed that Bodal had been privately battling an aggressive form of cancer for over 18 months. He had reportedly sought treatment at multiple specialized facilities, including MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston and Memorial Sloan Kettering in New York.
His current wife, whom he married in 2022, remained by his side throughout the treatment process. "She showed incredible strength and devotion," a family friend shared. "Bernt often said he felt grateful to have found such unwavering support during his most challenging time."
Legacy Beyond Business
Beyond his corporate success, Bodal was known for his philanthropic efforts, particularly in ocean conservation and maritime education. He donated over $2 million to various environmental causes throughout his career and served on the board of several non-profit organizations focused on sustainable fishing practices.
The businessman is survived by his wife, three children from previous relationships, and a business legacy that continues to influence the American seafood industry. Memorial services are being planned for both Norway and the United States, honoring his dual heritage and widespread impact.
Vargas concluded her tribute by stating, "While our marriage didn't last, Bernt's contributions to his industry and his role as a father will be remembered. My thoughts are with his family during this difficult time."
