American actor Carla Jeffery, known for roles in Disney’s Zombies, Curb Your Enthusiasm and Phat Girls died on 1 September at the age of 33.
Carla was diagnosed with epilepsy, with seizures starting at age 18, and was open about her condition to help bring awareness and help others.
Carla’s manager, Carla Alexander, announced the news on social media, writing: “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.
“Carla joined the Alexanders Talent Management family at the age of 12. 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.
“Carla was more than a client; she was family.”
No cause of death has yet been confirmed.
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Carla Jeffery opening up about epilepsy
Sharing her experience with the Epilepsy Foundation, Carla explained that initially she didn’t want to share much about her epilepsy, shying away from going out with friends in case she had a seizure.
She said: “When I first got into acting, I was not comfortable talking about my epilepsy. I was worried that I would have a seizure while reading lines or on set. I was even scared to tell my manager for fear that she wouldn’t send me on any auditions.
“But on the contrary, once I told her, she encouraged me to not let it hold me back. It helped me realise there was more to me than just my epilepsy.”
Carla’s manager supported her and encouraged her to open up about her epilepsy to everyone on the set of Zombies after she had a seizure during filming.
In 2022, despite trepidations, Carla took part in a public service announcement (PSA) aired on the Disney Channel for Disability Pride Month.
She said: “I eventually agreed to do the PSA, and I’m so glad I did! I felt that if my story can help others, then let it be known.
“I want everyone to know not to be scared of who you are.
“I want you to know that you can do what you want to do despite it all.”
Cameron Boyce
In 2019, another Disney Channel star, Cameron Boyce, died aged 20 in his sleep after having a seizure.
Cameron, famous for roles in the film Grown Ups, the Disney Channel’s Descendants and the show Jessie, had been receiving treatment for “an ongoing medical condition” linked to his death.
The Cameron Boyce Foundation, set up following his death to empower young adults living with epilepsy and work to end SUDEP, shared a tribute to Carla, saying: “We are truly saddened to hear about Carla Jeffery. She was such a light and incredible advocate for the epilepsy community.”
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