Ryan Buell, a renowned paranormal investigator, author, and television personality, gained fame as the host of A&E’s Paranormal State (2007–2011). Fans are curious about Ryan Buell’s marriage status with Sergey Poberezhny, his age, net worth, salary, dating life, and cancer status. This article dives into these questions, offering updated insights, a detailed biography, and exclusive perspectives on his journey. Despite controversies, Buell’s story remains compelling, blending paranormal expertise with personal struggles. Read on to explore his life, career, and current endeavors as of 2025.
Who Is Ryan Buell? Biography, Age, and Background
Ryan Daniel Buell, born on July 8, 1982, in Corry, Pennsylvania, is currently 43 years old. Raised in Sumter, South Carolina, by his mother, Shelly Bonavita Lundberg, and father, Tim Buell, a former state police officer, Buell grew up with a brother and four older sisters. His mixed Italian, Native American, and Danish heritage shaped his unique perspective. Buell’s early interest in journalism led him to edit his high school newspaper and create a daily news program with classmate Rebecca Pointe.
At Penn State University, Buell earned bachelor’s degrees in Journalism and Anthropology, fueling his passion for the paranormal. At age 19, he founded the Paranormal Research Society (PRS), a student-led group that investigated hauntings and supernatural phenomena, laying the groundwork for his television career. His ability to blend academic rigor with paranormal exploration set him apart in the field.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Ryan Daniel Buell |
| Date of Birth | July 8, 1982 |
| Age | 43 (as of 2025) |
| Birthplace | Corry, Pennsylvania, USA |
| Ethnicity | Italian, Native American, Danish |
| Education | Bachelor’s in Journalism and Anthropology, Penn State University |
| Parents | Shelly Bonavita Lundberg (mother), Tim Buell (father) |
| Siblings | One brother, four older sisters |
| Occupation | Paranormal Investigator, Author, Producer, Former TV Host |
| Known For | Host of Paranormal State (2007–2011), Founder of Paranormal Research Society |
Is Ryan Buell Married to Sergey Poberezhny? Dating and Relationship Updates
One of the most searched questions about Ryan Buell’s personal life is whether he is married to Sergey Poberezhny, a former co-star on Paranormal State. In 2010, Buell publicly identified as bisexual through his memoir, Paranormal State: My Journey into the Unknown, and announced his relationship with Sergey Poberezhny on social media. Speculation about their marriage peaked in 2014, with some sources claiming they tied the knot in a private ceremony in State College, Pennsylvania. However, recent evidence suggests they are not married.
Sergey Poberezhny, born March 20, 1984, in Ukraine, has been married to Melissa Drake since April 1, 2016, and they reportedly have children. Social media posts and public records indicate that Poberezhny distanced himself from Buell around 2017, focusing on his family life in coastal South Carolina. As of 2025, Ryan Buell appears to be single, with no confirmed reports of dating or a new partner. His social media, including Instagram (@theryanbuell) and Twitter (@ryan_buell), focuses on paranormal work and personal reflections rather than romantic updates.
Buell’s openness about his bisexuality and support for the LGBTQ+ community has inspired many. He once shared, “I’ve decided to share my sexuality and struggle over faith in hopes that others will no longer feel alone or that they can’t be religious.” This resonates with fans who admire his authenticity despite personal challenges.
Ryan Buell’s Net Worth and Salary in 2025
Ryan Buell’s net worth is estimated at $1.5 million as of 2025, primarily earned through his work as a paranormal investigator, author, and producer. His salary during Paranormal State’s run (2007–2011) is not publicly disclosed, but the show’s success, with over 2.5 million viewers in its first season, suggests significant earnings. Buell also profited from his memoir, speaking engagements, and events like the 41-city tour in 2011 with co-star Chad Calek. However, controversies, including canceled events without refunds, have impacted his financial reputation.
Buell owns properties in Pennsylvania and a BMW, reflecting his financial stability despite setbacks. His current income likely stems from blogging, social media sponsorships, and occasional paranormal events, such as his announced appearance at ParaCon in Connecticut in October 2022. For the latest on his projects, visit his official website.
Cancer Status: Truth Behind the Diagnosis
In 2012, Ryan Buell announced a pancreatic cancer diagnosis at age 29, shocking fans. He shared updates about his treatment and near-remission in a 2013 People magazine interview. However, his mother, Shelly Bonavita Lundberg, later denied the diagnosis, claiming Buell fabricated it to delay events like the Conversations with the Dead Tour. This controversy sparked debates about his credibility.
As of 2025, there is no confirmed evidence that Buell has or had cancer. Fans speculate the claim was linked to his struggles with addiction, which he admitted in a 2017 blog post, describing his battle with pain pill dependency during Paranormal State’s final season. Buell’s resilience in addressing these issues publicly highlights his commitment to personal growth, though it remains a polarizing topic.
Controversies and Legal Issues
Ryan Buell’s career has faced scrutiny due to legal and financial controversies. In 2016, he was arrested in Florence County, South Carolina, for theft of leased property after allegedly using a fake address to rent a car. He was released on bail after a month. In 2017, another arrest followed an alleged altercation with a boyfriend, with reports of scratches and a bitten finger, though Buell denied physical violence. These incidents, coupled with accusations of scamming fans by canceling paid events, have tarnished his reputation.
Despite these challenges, Buell has worked to rebuild his career. After his 2017 release, he returned to Pennsylvania, focusing on advertising and blogging. His perseverance mirrors that of other public figures who navigate redemption arcs, offering a case study in resilience.
Current Endeavors and Legacy
As of 2025, Ryan Buell remains active in the paranormal community, sharing insights on Facebook (@RyanDBuell) and engaging with fans. He is reportedly pursuing graduate studies at the University of South Carolina and plans to expand his paranormal research. His influence on the genre is undeniable, with Paranormal State paving the way for shows like Ghost Hunters.
Unique Insight: Having followed Buell’s career, I’ve observed how his transparency about personal struggles—bisexuality, addiction, and family tensions—resonates with audiences seeking authenticity. His story reflects the broader challenges faced by public figures balancing fame with personal battles, making him a complex yet inspiring figure.
For more details, explore his Wikipedia page or follow his journey on social media.
Conclusion
Ryan Buell’s life, marked by paranormal expertise, personal revelations, and controversies, continues to captivate fans. At 43, with a net worth of $1.5 million, he is not married to Sergey Poberezhny, who is married to Melissa Drake. Buell’s cancer claims remain unverified, and his focus now lies in rebuilding his career and inspiring others. His journey underscores the power of resilience in the face of adversity.
