LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 17: Erica Ash attends the SAG-AFTRA Foundation Conversations - "Outlaw Johnny Black" at SAG-AFTRA Foundation Screening Room on October 17, 2023 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Araya Doheny/Getty Images)
The family of actress Erica Ash has confirmed that the 46-year-old passed away. Known for her comedic talents, the ‘Scary Movie’ star died after privately battling cancer. Her mother, Diana Ash, confirmed the tragic news to TMZ after a post-and-delete from BET first shared the news on Monday (July 29) morning.
“We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our beloved daughter, sister, and friend Erica Chantal Ash (1977-2024). After a long and courageous battle with cancer, she transitioned peacefully surrounded by her loved ones,” Diana Ash reportedly said.
Her breakout years happened between 2006 and 2007 while she appeared as a regular on two seasons of ‘The Big Gay Sketch Show.’ Erica was also known for her roles and appearances in films and TV shows, including Survivors’ Remorse, Real Husbands of Hollywood, In Contempt, and Mad TV. She was born in 1977 in Florida, per Deadline.
Her mother, Diana, also spoke to the outlet about her daughter’s success on-screen and the woman she was off of it. Mama Ash asked that folks give any donations to a cancer foundation. Still, she didn’t specify which variant of the disease her daughter passed away from.
“Erica was an amazing woman and talented entertainer who touched countless lives with her sharp wit, humor, and genuine zest for life. Her memory will live eternally in our hearts. In honor of Erica’ memory, the family asks that any donations be made to the Susan G. Komen Cancer Foundation or the Breast Cancer Foundation of your choice. We are grateful for the kind expressions of love and support during this difficult time.”
Hours before TMZ, radio host Roland Martin had also confirmed Erica Ash’s death in an X (formerly Twitter) post, revealing in a separate post that he knew her “well.” Near his statement’s end, he threw in a postmortem endorsement from his friend’s behalf for Kamala Harris’ presidential race.
“It saddens me to confirm that our beloved sister @TheEricaAsh is now an ancestor. She was 46. Erica was an amazing talented, funny, and serious actress. I adored her. She was serious about politics and would have been one of @KamalaHarris biggest supporters. Pray for her family.”
Within minutes of Martin, her dear friend Loni Love also confirmed Erica Ash’s passing. She also complimented the late ‘Scary Movie’ actress on her humor and career trajectory.
“I am sad to confirm my friend and fellow actress Erica Ashe’s passing…. Erica was talented and hilarious whether it was the show Survivor’s Remorse or Madtv she would put her all into her work. She would always just be there.. now she’s gone.. My sincere condolences to her family and fans.”
This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.
R.I.P Erica Ash!
