The actress best known for playing Bree in Disney Channel’s popular Zombies franchise has died at the age of 33.
Carla Jeffery’s death was announced by her longtime talent manager, Carla Alexander, on September 2. Alexander said the actress died on September 1, describing her as someone whose talent, personality, and smile left a lasting impression on everyone around her. The cause of death has not been disclosed.
The sudden loss has left fans and former co-stars mourning an actress who became especially popular among younger audiences through her work with Disney.
Jeffery played Bree, a cheerleader and friend of the main characters, in the Zombies movie franchise. She appeared in the first three films, released in 2018, 2020, and 2022, and also continued voicing Bree in the animated series Zombies: The Re-Animated Series.
Her acting career began when she was just 12 years old. She made her film debut in the 2006 movie Phat Girlz, playing a younger version of Mo’Nique’s character.
From there, Jeffery built an impressive list of television credits. She appeared in shows including Curb Your Enthusiasm, Southland, Shake It Up, Good Luck Charlie, Suburgatory, Scream Queens, and American Vandal.
Her role in Zombies ultimately became her most recognizable performance.
The franchise follows a group of teenagers navigating life in a world where humans, zombies, and other supernatural groups attend the same school. Jeffery’s Bree was part of the cheerleading community at Seabrook High and became a familiar face throughout the series.
Beyond acting, Jeffery was also outspoken about representation in Hollywood. She discussed her experiences as a Black actress and spoke about the importance of young Black and plus-sized girls seeing people who looked like them represented on screen.
Her longtime management company had represented her for more than two decades, making the loss particularly personal for those who worked closely with her.
Former colleagues and fans have since flooded social media with tributes, remembering Jeffery for her infectious smile, positive personality, and ability to bring energy to her performances.
Jeffery is survived by her twin brother, Carlon Jeffery, who was also a Disney Channel actor and appeared in A.N.T. Farm.
She was only 33.
While the circumstances surrounding her death remain private, her work will continue to live on through the movies and television shows that introduced her to audiences around the world.