Carla Jeffery, the actress best known to Disney Channel fans for playing the cheerful cheerleader Bree in the Zombies franchise, has died.
She was 33.
Jeffery died on September 1, according to her management company, Alexanders Talent. No cause of death has been announced.
Her longtime agency shared the heartbreaking news on social media, remembering an actress they had known and supported for more than two decades.
“Our hearts are broken as we mourn the loss of our beloved Carla Jeffery. For more than 20 years, Carla was part of the Alexanders Talent Management family, and watching her grow from a talented young girl into the beautiful, vibrant woman and actress she became was an incredible privilege,” said the agency. “We will remember her infectious smile, her laughter, her talent, and the beautiful light she carried everywhere she went.
“Our deepest love and condolences are with Carla’s family and loved ones. We ask that their privacy be respected during this incredibly difficult time. Rest beautifully, Carla. You will be deeply missed and forever loved,” the statement continued.
Fans knew her as Bree
Jeffery became a familiar face to Disney viewers after joining the cast of Zombies, the 2018 musical movie that became a hit with young audiences.
She played Bree, the bubbly cheerleader and close friend of Addison, and returned for both Zombies 2 and Zombies 3. She most recently reprised the character by lending her voice to Zombies: The Re-Animated Series.
But her acting career had begun long before she stepped onto the set of Zombies.
In a 2007 interview, Jeffery revealed that she had dreamed of becoming a star since performing in talent shows in grade school. She started acting professionally when she was just 12 years old, landing a role in the 2006 comedy Phat Girlz, starring Mo’Nique.
Over the years, she continued building her résumé with appearances in television shows including Crazy Ex-Girlfriend, Uncle Buck and American Vandal. She also appeared in 10 episodes of Curb Your Enthusiasm as Keysha Black and played Janila on the police drama Southland.
Born in Houston, Jeffery was also the twin sister of actor Carlon Jeffery, who starred as Cameron Parks on Disney Channel’s A.N.T. Farm.
From a young girl taking her first steps into acting to a familiar face for a generation of Disney fans, Carla Jeffery spent more than two decades pursuing the career she loved.
Now, fans, friends and colleagues are remembering her for the joy she brought to those around her — and for the smile her management company said could light up every room.
Rest peacefully, Carla.
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