Jai Evans’ star-studded final farewell: Famous friends including Jodi Gordon and Axel Whitehead pay tribute to late PR guru
PR guru Jai Evans, 43, was honoured with an emotional ‘Celebration of Life’ service at Woronora Memorial Park in Sutherland on Wednesday, where friends and family gathered to pay their respects.
Evans, a prominent figure in Sydney’s PR and social scene in the early 2000s, was found dead in his Darlinghurst apartment earlier this month.
His sudden death has shocked the entertainment and PR industries, with friends remembering his vibrant, overwhelming personality.
Among the mourners were Australian TV stars Axle Whitehead and Jodi Gordon, who joined their family members to pay their respects to Evans.
The service was a mix of laughter, fond memories and inevitable sadness, a perfect reflection of the colorful personality Evans brought to his work and friendships.
The attendees entered the chapel to the enchanting song In The Arms Of An Angel by Sarah McLachlan, which immediately set the tone for reflection.
Later, the mood brightened when Right Said Fred’s I’m Too Sexy brought a touch of cheerfulness that reflected Evans’ flair.
A moving slideshow of photos from Evans’ life was played during Mariah Carey’s song One Sweet Day, highlighting special moments from his 43rd year.
The life of much-loved PR guru Jai Evans, 43, was celebrated at an emotional ‘Celebration of Life’ service at Woronora Memorial Park in Sutherland on Wednesday, as friends and family gathered to pay their respects
Evans, a prominent figure in Sydney’s PR and social scene in the early 2000s, was found dead in his Darlinghurst skyscraper apartment earlier this month
His family, including his mother Rana, sisters Kim and Tracey and beloved nephews Sean, Jordan, Jett and Finn, paid emotional tributes.
Rana spoke of Jai’s love of performing, while cousin Sean described his uncle as “the soul and energy of the family”, adding: “He could make you laugh, make you angry, make you happy and love him all at the same time.”
Despite his vibrant social life, Evans faced professional and personal pressures in the months leading up to his death.
Among the mourners were Australian TV stars Axle Whitehead and Jodi Gordon, who joined family members to pay their respects to Evans
His sudden passing has left the entertainment and PR industries in shock, with friends remembering his vibrant, larger-than-life personality. Pictured: Jodi Gordon
A source close to him told Daily Mail Australia that Evans was struggling with the loss of clients, financial problems and an ongoing legal matter.
Friends noticed he disappeared “off the radar” for days, his Instagram account went private and he disappeared from social circles.
His last public appearance was on August 22 at a dinner in Potts Point, where he reportedly appeared overwhelmed and even admitted that he needed a drink despite attempts to stay sober. Evans was also stressed about a lawsuit, although the nature of it remains unclear.
The service was a mix of laughter, fond memories and inevitable sadness, perfectly reflecting the colourful personality Evans brought to his work and friendships
Attendees entered the chapel to Sarah McLachlan’s enchanting In The Arms Of An Angel, which set the reflective tone
Later, the mood brightened when Right Said Fred’s I’m Too Sexy brought a touch of fun that reflected Evans’ flair for the unexpected
A New South Wales Police spokesperson confirmed that Evans was found in his Darlinghurst apartment on September 4, 2024.
Although the exact cause of death is still unknown, police have ruled out any suspicious circumstances. Final details will only be released in the coroner’s report.
Evans’ illustrious career has brought him into contact with Australian celebrities including Lara Worthington and the stars of Married At First Sight.
A moving slideshow of photos from Evans’ life played on Mariah Carey’s One Sweet Day, highlighting special moments from his 43-year life
His family, including his mother Rana, sisters Kim and Tracey and beloved nephews Sean, Jordan, Jett and Finn, paid emotional tributes
One of his last PR roles was helping MAFS stars Duncan James and Evelyn Ellis go public with their relationship, although their working relationship had ended before his death.
Despite the success and glamour, Evans’ final months seemed to be marked by increasing challenges.
Evans had over twenty years of experience and success in the public relations industry.
In 2005, he founded his own company Evans Media and has worked with hundreds of media companies to help them with their PR strategies.
During his successful career, Jai held positions as advertising manager, publicist, magazine publisher, editor and all-round public relations expert.
Evans has helped many key players in the Australian media, including Channel Nine, Sky News, News Limited, BRW and Vogue, achieve their marketing goals.
The talent expert also boasts a host of celebrity friends, including model Lara Worthington and e-commerce queen Anastasia Fai Kogan.
He also had a brief acting career, appearing in Home and Away in 1997.
If you or someone you know is experiencing mental health issues, please contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636.
