Joey Kovar of "Real World: Hollywood" was discovered dead at a friend's house in Illinois on Friday. He was 29.

"MTV is deeply saddened to learn that Joey Kovar of 'The Real World: Hollywood' has passed away," the network that hosts the reality show said in a statement. "We offer our sympathies to Joey's loved ones, friends and fans."

According to TMZ, Kovar had blood coming out of his nose and ears when a friend found him. Family members believe his death was caused by drugs.

The young troubled star's addictions were no secret. While on the "Real World," which is in its 20th season, Kovar went to rehab in 2008, returned to the show, then went back. He appeared on VH1's "Celebrity Rehab" in 2009 after he relapsed. The reality TV star had been abusing cocaine and ecstasy, among other drugs and alcohol.

"The Real World: Hollywood" brings together seven strangers who are seeking fame in Hollywood, in one house.

Kovar is described as a "true blue Chicagoan" who "never ventured outside the state of Illinois," according to his bio on MTV. He is a personal trainer and former bodybuilder who works out "all the time."

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Having struggled with addiction, Kovar was hoping "The Real World' would "lead him down a new path so he can follow his dream of becoming an actor," the bio adds.