The Kardashian-Jenner family is mourning the loss of one of its most beloved matriarchs after Mary Jo Campbell, affectionately known to fans as “MJ,” passed away at the age of 91.
Kris Jenner shared the heartbreaking news on social media on Thursday, revealing that her mother had died just days before what would have been her 92nd birthday.
“Today, we said goodbye to my beautiful Mommy MJ,” Jenner wrote in an emotional tribute that quickly drew messages of support from fans, friends and members of the entertainment industry.
While no official cause of death was immediately disclosed, the announcement marked the end of a life that became familiar to millions of viewers through the Kardashian family’s reality television empire.
For longtime followers of the family, MJ was far more than a recurring television personality. She was a constant presence behind the scenes, offering wisdom, humour and unwavering support as the Kardashian-Jenner clan evolved into one of the most influential families in pop culture.
Mary Jo Campbell first entered the public eye when *Keeping Up with the Kardashians* premiered in 2007. Over the years, viewers watched her share memorable moments with her daughter, Kris Jenner, and her famous grandchildren, including Kim Kardashian, Kourtney Kardashian, Khloé Kardashian, Kendall Jenner, and Kylie Jenner.
Her appearances continued as the family transitioned from *Keeping Up with the Kardashians* to Hulu’s *The Kardashians*, where she remained a cherished figure among fans.
In her tribute, Kris Jenner reflected on the values and life lessons her mother passed down through generations.
“She taught us that family is everything. She showed us how to love unconditionally and how to find joy in the little moments. She showed me how to face life’s challenges with resilience and faith,” Jenner wrote.
The message highlighted the profound influence MJ had not only on her daughter but on the entire family. Throughout the years, Kris has frequently spoken about her close relationship with her mother, often describing her as a source of strength and guidance.
Born in 1934, Mary Jo Campbell witnessed nearly a century of social and cultural change. Long before the Kardashian-Jenner name became a global brand, she was focused on raising her family and building the foundation that would later become central to the family’s identity.
Her passing comes a little over two years after another tragedy struck the family. In March 2024, Kris Jenner’s younger sister, Karen Houghton, died at the age of 65 following a cardiac arrest. The loss of MJ adds another deeply personal chapter to a family that has often shared both its celebrations and heartbreaks with the public.
As a mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, MJ’s legacy extends far beyond her television appearances. Fans often admired the warmth she brought to family gatherings and the special bond she shared with her grandchildren, many of whom frequently expressed their affection for her on social media and during episodes of the family’s reality shows.
Although the Kardashian-Jenner family has built a global empire spanning fashion, beauty, business and entertainment, Kris Jenner’s tribute served as a reminder that at the heart of it all remains a family shaped by the values passed down through generations.
Mary Jo Campbell died just days before her 92nd birthday on July 26, leaving behind children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and millions of viewers who came to know her simply as MJ—a loving matriarch whose presence became an enduring part of one of television’s most famous families.
