On September 1, 2026, the entertainment world lost a bright, radiant talent. Carla Jeffery, the beloved actress who captured the hearts of millions as the bubbly cheerleader Bree in Disney Channel’s ZOMBIES franchise, passed away at the age of 33.
The devastating news was confirmed on September 2 by her long-time agency, Alexanders Talent Management, who had represented Jeffery since she was just 12 years old. While the official cause of death has not yet been publicly disclosed, the sudden loss has sent shockwaves through the Disney community and her dedicated fanbase.
From her early days as a child actress to her defining role in one of Disney’s biggest modern musical franchises, Jeffery was known for her infectious laugh, comedic timing, and warm spirit. We are looking back at her vibrant career, her memorable roles across television, and the outpouring of tributes from those who knew her best.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Born Carla Jaran Jeffery on July 10, 1993, in Houston, Texas, she was destined for the screen alongside her twin brother, Carlon Jeffery (who fans may recognize from Disney’s A.N.T. Farm). The family eventually relocated to California to support the twins’ entertainment aspirations, where Carla began taking acting classes to overcome her natural shyness.
Her natural talent quickly shone through. She landed her first major screen role at just 10 years old, playing a young version of Mo’Nique’s character in the 2006 film Phat Girlz.
Over the next decade, Jeffery built a remarkably versatile resume across both comedy and intense drama:
- Curb Your Enthusiasm (2007–2009): She played Keysha Black, part of the family that moves in with Larry David following Hurricane Katrina in the show’s storyline.
- Southland (2009): She showed her dramatic range playing Janila in the critically acclaimed police procedural.
- Teen Television: She made memorable appearances across popular network shows, including iCarly, Good Luck Charlie, Shake It Up, and the Netflix true-crime satire American Vandal.
The Disney Era: Becoming Bree in ZOMBIES
While she had a steady career for over a decade, Jeffery’s true global breakthrough arrived in 2018 when she was cast in the Disney Channel Original Movie ZOMBIES.
Jeffery portrayed Bree, the optimistic, fiercely loyal best friend of the main character Addison (Meg Donnelly). Bree’s journey from a nervous high school student to a confident cheerleader who embraces the integration of zombies and humans resonated deeply with the network’s young audience.
She reprised the beloved role in ZOMBIES 2 (2020) and ZOMBIES 3 (2022), and continued to lend her voice to the character in the 2024 animated spinoff ZOMBIES: The Re-Animated Series. For a generation of young viewers, Jeffery’s portrayal of Bree was a masterclass in physical comedy, warmth, and genuine friendship.
Tributes: “The Brightest Shining Light”
Following the announcement from Alexanders Talent Management—who remembered her as “a beautiful, vibrant, and incredibly talented woman whose radiant smile could light up any room”—social media was flooded with tributes from her ZOMBIES family.
- Milo Manheim (Zed): Shared a touching tribute on his Instagram Story, writing, “Love you, Carlaboo. The sweetest, kindest, most loving person… Thank you for spreading so much joy”.
- Chandler Kinney (Willa): Described Jeffery as “the brightest shining light in any room she walked into”.
- Carlon Jeffery: Her twin brother shared heartbreaking final texts and emotional memories, giving fans a deeply personal glimpse into the profound bond they shared.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Remembering Carla Jeffery
When did Carla Jeffery pass away?
Carla Jeffery passed away on Tuesday, September 1, 2026. Her death was publicly announced by her management agency the following day. She was 33 years old.
What was Carla Jeffery’s cause of death?
As of early September 2026, the cause of Carla Jeffery’s death has not been publicly disclosed. Her agency and family have requested privacy during this difficult time of mourning.
Who did Carla Jeffery play in Disney’s ZOMBIES?
She played Bree, a cheerful Seabrook High cheerleader and the loyal best friend to the franchise’s main protagonist, Addison.
Are Carla Jeffery and Carlon Jeffery related?
Yes, Carla Jeffery and actor Carlon Jeffery (best known for playing Cameron Parks on Disney’s A.N.T. Farm) are twin siblings.
Carla Jeffery’s passing at just 33 years old is a tragic, premature loss for the entertainment industry. For over two decades, she navigated the often-difficult transition from child star to working adult actress with grace and undeniable talent. While her time was tragically cut short, her legacy is cemented in the laughter she brought to Curb Your Enthusiasm, the dramatic weight she carried in Southland, and most enduringly, the bright, joyful spirit she immortalized as Bree in the ZOMBIES universe. Her light will continue to shine through the beloved characters she left behind.
