Competitive eating champion Tim Janus, also known by his moniker 'Eater X,' died on September 16 at the age of 49. His death followed a lengthy battle with cancer, Major League Eating confirmed.
Janus achieved a world ranking as high as number two in competitive eating, competing alongside Joey Chestnut, his teammate on "The Amazing Race 30." He held multiple championship titles, including world champion in tiramisu, ramen, and nigiri sushi eating, as well as the world burping champion title.
His competitive eating feats included consuming four pounds of tiramisu in six minutes, 10.5 pounds of ramen in eight minutes, and 141 pieces of nigiri in six minutes. Janus was also a regular participant in Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest, earning second place in 2010 and third in 2014, both behind Joey Chestnut.
Beyond competitive eating, Janus was a notable television personality. He appeared on "The Amazing Race 30" with Chestnut, and the duo finished in eighth place. He also made appearances on "Who Wants To Be A Millionaire," "Cash Cab," and "Shaq Vs."
Janus set a record on "Cash Cab," winning $1,600, and on "Who Wants To Be A Millionaire" in 2009, he took home $100,000. He also assisted Shaquille O’Neal in preparing for a hot dog eating contest against Chestnut on "Shaq Vs."
He began his competitive eating career in 2004 and was recognized with induction into the Major League Eating Hall of Fame. Janus was known for his distinctive stage presence, often appearing with a painted face.
In 2015, Janus reflected on his passion, stating, "I'd eat a roll of pennies if I thought I could set a world record, taste doesn't matter. I'd like to eat everything in the world at least once. I'd eat alien if we could find it."
He later expressed concerns about the health implications of his competitive eating. In a 2016 tweet, he wrote, "Deep down I've wondered how long-term stupid competing is for my health. I can't ignore that feeling anymore."
In 2023, Janus began working for the United States Foreign Service, but his health issues prevented him from serving abroad, according to Major League Eating.
Fellow competitive eater and former roommate Crazy Legs Conti remembered Janus as someone who "lived life on his own terms." Conti added, "He was unique, brilliant and beloved by his friends."
Janus is survived by his mother, Lucinda Hannon; father, Peter Janus; stepmother, Nancy Janus; and sister, Tess McNair. A memorial service is scheduled to be held in New York City in October.