Entertainment
Beloved Disney Star Dead At 33
Disney Channel actress Carla Jeffery, best known for playing Bree in the hit “Zombies” franchise, has died at just 33 years old.
Jeffery died Tuesday, according to a statement posted Wednesday night on her Instagram page by her manager, Carla Alexander.
“It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of our beloved Carla Jeffery, who passed away on September 1, 2026, at just 33 years old,” the statement read.
Jeffery had been with Alexanders Talent Management since she was 12, giving those around her a front-row seat to more than two decades of her career.
“For more than 20 years, we had the privilege of watching her grow into a beautiful, vibrant, and incredibly talented woman whose radiant smile could light up any room,” Alexander wrote in the statement. “Carla was more than a client; she was family.”
The actress became a familiar face to a generation of Disney viewers through her role as cheerleader Bree in “Zombies,” where she brought what her management team described as joy, humor and a bright spirit to audiences around the world.
Her loved ones have asked for privacy following her death.
Disney Entertainment Television also released a statement mourning Jeffery and offering condolences to her family, friends, castmates and fans.
Carlon Jeffrey shared a heartbreaking screenshot of his final texts to his twin sister, Carla Jeffrey, who passed away today💔:
“Hey Sis
Call me back when you get this..I was just calling to see how your day went! I love you to the moon & back
sis🌙♋️I just want you to know… pic.twitter.com/CUsd8GQfGR
— sitcom crave (@sitcomcrave) September 3, 2026
“Carla 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, and her performances brought joy to millions,” the statement said. “We will remember Carla for her generosity, her humor and the genuine light she brought to those around her.”
Tributes poured in almost immediately from Jeffery’s “Zombies” co-stars, many of whom described her as a bright, loving presence both on and off screen.
Chandler Kinney, who played Willa, said Jeffery’s death “doesn’t feel real.”
She called Jeffery a “sparkly gal. you made every day better and brighter with your infectious positivity,” she wrote online. “I feel so grateful to have known your love.”
Milo Manheim, who starred as Zed, shared photos and videos of the two together on Instagram.
One tribute read, “Love you Carlaboo. The sweetest, kindest, most loving person.”
Trevor Tordjman, who played Bucky Buchanan, also remembered Jeffery’s unmistakable presence.
“Carla, you will be missed,” he wrote. “Will never forget your energy. Truly one of a kind.”
Jeffery’s brother, actor Carlon Jeffery, also honored his sister on social media.
He said she was “truly a light that shines bright.”
He added, “You are the best sister a brother could ask for. Pray we continue to grow closer to one another along this journey. I got your back in this life and the next.”
Jeffery built a steady career in children’s television long before “Zombies” made her a Disney favorite.
Her credits included appearances on “iCarly,” “Good Luck Charlie” and “Shake It Up.” She also appeared in 10 episodes of “Curb Your Enthusiasm.”
Her breakout came in 2018 when she landed the role of Bree in the original “Zombies” television movie.
Jeffery returned for the second and third installments and later voiced Bree in “Zombies: The Re-Animated Series,” extending the role that made her beloved among Disney fans.
Her death at such a young age stunned fans and castmates alike, with tributes focusing not just on her work, but on the warmth and energy she brought to the people around her.
