The actress’s family Erica Ash confirmed that the 46-year-old has passed away. Known for her comedic talents, the ‘Scary Movie’ star died after privately battling cancer. Her mother, Diana Ashes, confirmed the tragic news for TMZ After a post and deletion by BET, the news was first shared on Monday morning (July 29).
“We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our beloved daughter, sister and friend Erica Chantal Ash (1977-2024). After a long and courageous battle with cancer, she passed peacefully surrounded by her loved ones,” Diana Ash would have said.
Here’s what else Erica’s mom shared
Her breakout years came between 2006 and 2007, when she appeared as a regular on two seasons of ‘The Big Gay Sketch Show’. Erica was also known for her roles and appearances in films and TV shows, including Survivors’ Remorse, Real Husbands of Hollywood, In Contempt, and Mad TV. She was born in 1977 in Florida, by Deadline.
Her mother, Diana, also spoke to the network about her daughter’s success on screen and the woman she was off screen. Mama Ash asked people to donate to a cancer foundation. However, she did not specify which variant of the disease her daughter died from.
“Erica was an incredible woman and a talented artist who touched countless lives with her sharp wit, humor and genuine zest for life. Her memory will live forever in our hearts. In honor of Erica’s memory, the family asks that all donations be made to the Susan G. Komen Cancer Foundation or the Breast Cancer Foundation of your choice. We are grateful for the kind expressions of love and support during this difficult time.”
Celebrities and fans react to Erica Ash’s death
Hours before TMZ, radio host Roland Martin also confirmed Erica Ash’s death in a post on X (formerly Twitter), revealing in a separate post that he knew her “well.” Near the end of his statement, he included a post-mortem endorsement on behalf of his friend for Kamala Harris’s presidential run.
“Sad to confirm that our dear sister @TheEricaAsh is now an ancestor. She was 46. Erica was an incredibly talented, funny and serious actress. I adored her. She took politics seriously and would have been one of @KamalaHarris’ biggest supporters. Prayers for her family.”
It is with sadness that I confirm that our dear sister @AEricaAsh is now an ancestor. She was 46. Erica was a talented, funny, and serious actress. I adored her. She took politics seriously and would have been one of the @KamalaHarris biggest supporters. Pray for her family. photo.twitter.com/ewiYHfXtWb
— rolandsmartin (@rolandsmartin) July 29, 2024
A few minutes after Martin, his dear friend Love Loni also confirmed the passing of Erica Ash. She also praised the late ‘Scary Movie’ actress for her humor and career path.
“I am sad to confirm the passing of my friend and fellow actress Erica Ashe… Erica was talented and hilarious, whether it was on Survivor’s Remorse or Madtv, she put her all into her work. She would always be there… now she is gone… My sincere condolences to her family and fans.”
This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.
Rest in peace, Erica Ash!
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