Carla Jeffery, best known for playing cheerleader Bree in Disney Channel’s Zombies franchise, has died, aged 33.
A statement posted on social media by her agent Carla Alexander on Tuesday read: “It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of our beloved Carla Jeffery, who passed away on 1 September, 2026, at just 33 years old.”
The statement described her as “beautiful, vibrant, and incredibly talented woman whose radiant smile could light up any room”.
Jeffery had joined Alexander’s agency at the age of 12. “As Bree in Disney’s hit Zombies franchise, Carla shared her joy, humour and bright spirit with audiences around the world. Carla was more than a client; she was family,” the statement continued. “Our hearts are with Carla’s family and loved ones during this devastating time. Rest beautifully, Carla. Your light will never be forgotten.”
No cause of death or further information was provided.
Born in Houston, Texas, on 10 July 1993, Jeffery made her screen debut in the 2006 comedy Phat Girlz, playing the 10-year-old version of Mo’Nique’s character Jazmin.
She went on to appear in a range of television shows such as iCarly, Good Luck Charlie, Shake It Up!, Scream Queens, Crazy Ex-Girlfriend, Suburgatory, and Netflix’s American Vandal.
One of Jeffery’s earliest major television roles was on Larry David’s Curb Your Enthusiasm, where she played Keysha Black, a child whose family ended up moving into David’s home after being displaced by Hurricane Katrina. She appeared in 10 episodes in the show’s sixth and seventh seasons between 2006 and 2008.
Her best-known role came in Zombies, Disney Channel’s musical fantasy franchise about humans and supernatural creatures living together in the fictional town of Seabrook. She played Bree, a cheerleader at Seabrook High and the best friend of Addison, played by Meg Donnelly. Jeffery appeared in the 2018 film and then in the sequels Zombies 2 in 2020 and Zombies 3 in 2022, before voicing Bree in Zombies: The Re-Animated Series in 2024.
Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 day
New subscribers only. £9.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled.
ADVERTISEMENT. If you sign up to this service we will earn commission. This revenue helps to fund journalism across The Independent.
Her final credited performing role was in the 2025 audio drama Asanté, in which she played Tiara in an episode released in February that year.
Milo Manheim, who played Zed in the Zombies films, led tributes to Jeffery under Alexander’s post, writing: “Carla. The sweetest person I have ever met. I love you.”
Chandler Kinney, who joined the franchise as werewolf Willa in Zombies 2, remembered Jeffery as “the brightest shining light in any room she walked into”, calling her “the kindest person you’d ever meet” and “the most beautiful soul”.
Trevor Tordjman, who played Bucky in the Zombies films, wrote: “At a loss for words right now. I’ll never forget your energy and spirit Carla.”
Baby Ariel, who played Wynter in several Zombies projects, posted: “Carla I’m at a loss. I love you I love you I love you I love you.”
“This is absolutely heartbreaking. We only got to meet in person just once in the booth, but she was incredibly sweet and kind and we were both giddy over getting to record at Disney,” Erika Ishii, who voiced Harley in Zombies: The Re-Animated Series, wrote. “Deepest condolences to her family and friends.”
Disney Entertainment Television said in a tribute that Jeffery’s “extraordinary talent, warmth and spirit left an indelible mark on everyone who had the privilege of working with her”.
She had “a rare gift for connecting with audiences”. “We will remember Carla for her generosity, her humor and the genuine light she brought to those around her,” it continued. “We offer our deepest condolences to her family and loved ones, her castmates and collaborators, and the countless fans whose lives she touched.”
Jeffery’s twin brother, Carlon Jeffery, is also an actor and appeared as Cameron Parks in the Disney Channel sitcom A.N.T. Farm.