Carla Jeffery, Disney ‘Zombies’ star, dies at 33

Carla Jeffery, Disney ‘Zombies’ star, dies at 33

Carla Jeffery, the actress known for playing bubbly cheerleader Bree in Disney’s “Zombies” franchise, has died at the age of 33. Her management company, Alexanders Talent, announced her death on Instagram, but did not give a cause of death. Jeffery was a talented young actress who began her career at the age of 12, appearing in the 2006 film "Phat Girlz" opposite Mo'Nique. She went on to establish a consistent career as a child and teenage actor, earning guest and recurring roles on both network and cable television. Her first significant role was on HBO's "Curb Your Enthusiasm," where she played Keysha Black, a member of a family that moves in with Larry David after being driven out by Hurricane Katrina. Jeffery's breakout role came in 2018 when she was cast as Bree in the Disney Channel's musical film "Zombies." She reprised the role in "Zombies 2" and "Zombies 3" in 2020 and 2022, respectively. She also voiced the character in the 2024 animated series "Zombies: The Re-Animated Series." Jeffery's performances brought joy to millions, and she was remembered by her colleagues and fans for her generosity, humor, and infectious positivity. Tributes have been pouring in from Jeffery's co-stars and friends, including Milo Manheim, who played Zed in the "Zombies" franchise, and Chandler Kinney, who played werewolf Willa. Manheim wrote, "Love you Carlaboo, the sweetest, kindest, most loving person," while Kinney remembered Jeffery as "the sweetest, most sparkly gal" who made every day better and brighter with her infectious positivity. Jeffery's twin brother, Carlon Jeffery, also paid tribute to his sister, sharing a final text message he sent to her before her death. In the message, he wrote, "I got your back in this life and the next," and encouraged her to protect her light and not let anyone dim it. The two siblings had celebrated their joint birthday together just last month, and Carla had posted an adorable TikTok video to mark the occasion. Disney Entertainment Television also issued a statement, remembering Jeffery for her extraordinary talent, warmth, and spirit. "Carla Jeffery's extraordinary talent, warmth and spirit left an indelible mark on everyone who had the privilege of working with her," the company wrote. "She had a rare gift for connecting with audiences, and her performances brought joy to millions." Jeffery is survived by her family, including her twin brother Carlon, and a body of work that brought her to the attention of millions of young viewers who grew up with Bree, Addison, and Seabrook High on their screens. Fans have been sending messages to her on Instagram, thanking her for the role that made her a part of their childhoods. In addition to her work on the "Zombies" franchise, Jeffery appeared in several other films and television shows, including "Teacher of the Year," "Girl on the Edge," and "Exchange." She also voiced a character in a 2020 episode of Disney XD's Marvel cartoon series "Spider-Man." Jeffery had spoken openly about having epilepsy and had encouraged fans to discuss disabilities. The "Zombies" franchise, which launched in 2018, followed a group of students attending school with the undead residents of Zombietown. Jeffery's character, Bree, was a loyal best friend and a cheerful presence in the films, and her performances brought joy to millions of young viewers. As the entertainment industry mourns the loss of Carla Jeffery, fans and colleagues alike will remember her for her bright smile, her laughter, and her talent. She may be gone, but her legacy will live on through her work and the countless lives she touched.