The Challenge star Nelson Thomas to get foot amputation 1 year after car accident
Published on April 20, 2026 EDT The reality TV star was involved in a fiery crash in March 2023.

The Challenge star Nelson Thomas has made the decision to get his foot amputated following injuries sustained during a serious car crash in 2023.

The reality TV star shared the update Sunday on social media, noting that he's undergone multiple procedures on his ankle that have not been successful. Thomas' surgery is scheduled for March 5, the same date as his 2023 accident.

The date "remains vivid in my memory, a persistent presence in my thoughts," Thomas wrote alongside a post that features graphic photos of his injury, as well as a recording of his conversation with his doctor. "I consciously embrace it as the initiation of a new chapter. Opting for amputation, I am determined to own March 5th and redefine its significance in my life."

Of his decision to undergo the procedure, Thomas can be heard saying to his doctor, "I have to ask myself what kind of life I want to live and the quality of life I want to live. I think I'm at peace with it and it's time."

Thomas was involved in a major car accident in March 2023 in Austin. Minnesota Vikings wide receiver K.J. Osborn and three other good Samaritans who stumbled upon the scene helped pull Thomas out from the burning vehicle.

It was later revealed that Thomas was driving under the influence, stirring up controversy since the reality star had started a GoFundMe campaign and omitted that fact. Thomas has since apologized and taken accountability for the crash.

"Words can't explain how grateful I am to be alive," Thomas said in a social media post after the ordeal. "God is truly great, and he has you in his hands no matter who you are. I'm in high spirits and getting stronger. This will be a long road to recovery but to my fans, friends, and family please keep me in your prayers."

Thomas made his The Challenge debut in 2016 during season 28, appearing sporadically throughout until season 38. He also appeared on The Challenge: Untold History and The Challenge: World Championship. Other reality TV credits include Are You the One? and Ex on the Beach.

Sign up for Entertainment Weekly's free daily newsletter to get breaking TV news, exclusive first looks, recaps, reviews, interviews with your favorite stars, and more.

Related content:

Related articles
Pretty Little Liars: Summer School bosses preview more horror in season 2
TV
Pretty Little Liars: Summer School bosses preview more horror in season 2
Published on April 20, 2026 EDT
Survivor 46 recap: A new villain is born and immunity idols are officially cursed
TV
Survivor 46 recap: A new villain is born and immunity idols are officially cursed
Published on April 20, 2026 EDT
The Challenge: All Stars 4 eliminated player: 'I'm proud of the people I pissed off'
TV
The Challenge: All Stars 4 eliminated player: 'I'm proud of the people I pissed off'
Published on April 20, 2026 EDT
The Masked Singer's Poodle Moth shares whether she'll quit acting to pursue her music full time
TV
The Masked Singer's Poodle Moth shares whether she'll quit acting to pursue her music full time
Published on April 20, 2026 EDT
The ViewWhoopi Goldberg shares why she 'couldn't stop crying' on
TV
The ViewWhoopi Goldberg shares why she 'couldn't stop crying' on
Published on April 20, 2026 EDT
Maxton Hall review: This swoony private school romance makes the grade
TV
Maxton Hall review: This swoony private school romance makes the grade
Published on April 20, 2026 EDT
Shōgun stars Anna Sawai and Hiroyuki Sanada, Emmy nomination predictions, and more in EW's
TV
Shōgun stars Anna Sawai and Hiroyuki Sanada, Emmy nomination predictions, and more in EW's
Published on April 20, 2026 EDT
Wonder WomanLynda Carter pays tribute to
TV
Wonder WomanLynda Carter pays tribute to
Published on April 20, 2026 EDT
NCIS recap: Parker and Knight have a Poseidon adventure in the season 21 finale
TV
NCIS recap: Parker and Knight have a Poseidon adventure in the season 21 finale
Published on April 20, 2026 EDT