In a heartbreaking loss for the fashion world, Australian model Lucy Markovic has passed away at the age of 27 following complications from brain surgery. Markovic, who gained fame as a runner-up on the ninth season of Australia’s Next Top Model, was diagnosed with a brain arteriovenous malformation (AVM), a serious condition characterized by a tangled mass of blood vessels in the brain.
Markovic's death was confirmed on Friday, April 11, 2025, through a statement posted by her partner, Carlos, on her official Instagram account. "Dear friends and family, I regret to inform you that Lucy has passed ... she was at peace. Me, her mother and my mother were present with her," the emotional message read. The news has sent shockwaves through the modeling community, prompting an outpouring of tributes.
Donatella Versace, a prominent figure in the fashion industry, shared her condolences with her 12.4 million Instagram followers, saying, "I am so sorry to hear the news about @lucymarkovicc. Rest in peace beautiful girl." Markovic had worked with prestigious brands including Versace, Givenchy, and Armani, and her agency, Elite Model Management, described her as "a bright shining light," expressing their sorrow over her untimely passing.
Markovic's journey with her health issues began four years prior when she was diagnosed with the AVM. In March 2025, she announced her upcoming surgery, which was initially scheduled for March 26 but delayed until April 2. Just days before the operation, she shared a hopeful message with her over 20,000 TikTok followers, stating, "After this I will be in the clear. I will be free." Her optimism resonated with many, as she documented her final days leading up to the surgery.
On social media, Lucy shared her struggles with the AVM, revealing that it had grown to the size of a golf ball. In a TikTok video, she candidly discussed the risks associated with her condition, stating, "I have a four per cent chance per year that something could happen to me, like hemorrhaging in my brain. And that is not good odds." Despite the gravity of her situation, Markovic maintained a positive outlook, often joking about her preparations for surgery.
In the days leading up to her surgery, she spent time with family and friends in Berlin, where she was receiving treatment. Markovic expressed gratitude for the support of her loved ones, saying, "The more support and love you have around you, the better the outcome." She even painted her nails red, believing it would bring her good fortune, and joked about her family gathering to witness her surgery.
However, shortly after the surgery, complications arose. Carlos posted a story on Instagram stating that Markovic was "battling for her life," revealing that if the swelling in her brain did not decrease, another emergency surgery would be necessary. Tragically, her condition worsened, leading to her death just days after the operation.
Tributes have poured in from across the fashion industry, with many remembering Markovic for her elegance, warmth, and strength. Australian designer Alex Perry described her as "a joy to work with and so professional," while model Alex Consani wrote, "Rest In Peace Angel." Model Dominique Lissa added, "Heartbreaking. Rest in peace, heaven gained another angel today."
Markovic’s sister, Jelena, also a model, shared her grief on social media, stating, "This feels unreal. My world has shattered into a million pieces. The amount of sadness that has overcome me is unbearable." The impact of Markovic’s passing has been felt deeply within her family, friends, and fans alike.
Throughout her career, Markovic leveraged her fame from Australia’s Next Top Model to establish herself in the international modeling scene. After rising to prominence in 2015, she walked the runway for major labels and appeared in renowned fashion magazines including Vogue and Marie Claire. Her journey was marked by resilience, as she faced significant health challenges while pursuing her dreams.
Markovic's final posts showcased her determination and spirit, revealing her struggles with the AVM and her hopes for recovery. In one of her last videos, she humorously pretended to walk the runway in a hospital corridor, dressed in her lucky red pajamas. Her vibrant personality and positive energy left a lasting impression on those who followed her journey.
As the fashion world mourns the loss of Lucy Markovic, her legacy will undoubtedly live on through the memories of those who knew her and the impact she made during her short but remarkable life. Her story serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment.
Markovic's passing is a tragic reminder of the challenges many face with health conditions, and her courage in sharing her story has inspired many. The fashion community, along with her family and friends, will continue to honor her memory as they navigate this profound loss.
