Frankie Grande learns his grandpa died while still on the set of Big Brother.
Problem singer Ariana Grande's brother Frankie Grande has been making a name for himself as a contestant on CBS' Big Brother, and in a rare moment for the show, producers recently allowed Frankie to receive news from the outside world while still competing.
Unfortunately, the news was that Frankie's grandfather passed away on July 22, 2014 from cancer. He was 90 years old.
Related: Ariana Grande Loses Grandpa, Tweets Sweet Things About Him
In the episode, Frankie reads an emotional letter from his mother breaking the sad news out loud to the house cameras.
"Although it is difficult, we thought it was the right thing to tell you," he reads. "We love you so much and want you to know that grandpa said specifically a few days ago, that if anything were to ever happen, he wanted you to know how proud he is of you and that he is rooting for you to win."
Later, Frankie breaks down in tears, but is more determined than ever to win his season of the popular reality show.
"But I'm gonna be strong, and I'm gonna stay, and I’m gonna win HOH and I'm gonna win this game,” he says. "I'm gonna do it for my grandfather."
Ariana also took to Twitter Wednesday to express her sadness, and to thank fans for their support.
Video: Ariana Grande's Big Bro is Taking Over the 'Big Brother' House
if only y'all knew how amazing he was.. my ? hurts so much. It's beyond broken :'( but I got to hold his hand and watch him find his peace
— Ariana Grande (@ArianaGrande) July 23, 2014we thank you so much for the continuous love
— Ariana Grande (@ArianaGrande) July 23, 2014