‘RHONY’ Star Jessel Taank Announces Her Dad Is Dead at Age 68: ‘My Hero’

A Heartfelt Tribute to Kishor Taank: A Life of Passion and Light ✨

Jessel Taank, the beloved star of The Real Housewives of New York City, shared a deeply emotional tribute to her late father, Kishor Taank, who passed away at the age of 68. In an Instagram post on March 14, Jessel celebrated her father’s vibrant life, calling him her “North Star” and “My Dad. My Hero.” She accompagnied her heartfelt words with a slideshow of cherished photographs, capturing the essence of a man who lived life to the fullest. Kishor Taank, who was born in May 1956 and passed in February 2025, leaves behind a legacy of love, adventure, and an unwavering zest for life.

A Childhood of Adventure and Mischief in Kisumu, Kenya 🌴

Jessel vividly described her father’s childhood in Kisumu, Kenya, painting a picture of a man who was born to embrace adventure. She reminisced about his stories of climbing banana trees and stirring up trouble, affectionately referring to him as a “true Tarzan.” Kishor’s life was deeply rooted in his childhood experiences, which shaped his bold and unapologetic spirit. His tales of mischief and curiosity were not just stories but a reflection of the man he became: fiercely passionate, loyal, and always ready to explore the world around him.

A Father’s Wisdom: Lessons in Life and Finance 💰

Kishor Taank was more than just a father; he was a teacher, a guide, and a friend to Jessel. He had a unique knack for offering advice, particularly when it came to money—a trait that often led to playful debates between the two. Jessel recalled her father’s unwavering emphasis on saving money, a lesson she admits she and her siblings rarely heeded. “He loved talking about money—ours, other people’s—always the finance guy,” she wrote, highlighting his practical yet endearing approach to life. Despite their disagreements, his wisdom left a lasting impact on her, shaping her perspective on responsibility and the importance of financial prudence.

A Man Who Lived for Connection and Happiness 🌟

Kishor Taank’s impact extended far beyond his family. He was a man who thrived on connection, forming friendships wherever he went. Jessel described her father as someone who could light up a room, leaving an indelible impression on everyone he met. “He wanted Every. Single. Detail,” she wrote, emphasizing his genuine interest in the lives of others. His ability to make people feel seen and heard was a rare gift, and one that Jessel cherished deeply. Kishor’s joy was contagious, and his presence was a reminder to live life with purpose and happiness.

A Love Story for the Ages: Kishor and Nicky Taank ❤️

Jessel’s heartfelt tribute also celebrated the extraordinary relationship between her parents. She fondly referred to her father and mother, Nicky Taank, as “the Cindy Crawford to his bald Richard Gere,” highlighting the unique and dynamic partnership they shared. Their love story was one of adventure, travel, and laughter, a testament to their commitment to each other and their family. Jessel often heard people remark, “Your parents don’t act like parents,” a sentiment she embraced. To her, they were more than just parents—they were her best friends,Clazz, spontaneous, and a little nuts.”

Gratitude Over Grief: A Legacy of Light ✨

Though Kishor’s passing has left a void, Jessel chooses to focus on gratitude rather than grief. “It’s easy to be overcome with sadness, but sadness only serves our selfish purpose. Instead, we move forward with gratitude,” she penned. Jessel expressed her deep appreciation for having her father in her life, calling him her guiding light. “I’m so grateful you were my dad. We would choose you every time,” she wrote, her words a beautiful tribute to the man who shaped her life.

The Bravo star’s post concluded with a poignant reflection on her father’s love for the sun, noting that “he’s in the very light he basked in.” As Jessel and her family navigate this difficult time, they are not alone. Many of her friends and RHONY castmates, including Sutton Stracke and Jenna Lyons, flooded the comments with condolences, celebrating Kishor’s life and the profound impact he left on those who knew him.