Carla Jeffery, star of Disney's 'Zombies' movies, dies at 33

Carla Jeffery, an actor best known for her role in Disney's Zombies franchise, has died at 33.

Her cause of death was not immediately available.

"It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of our beloved Carla Jeffery," her manager, Carla Alexander, said in a statement posted to Jeffery's Instagram. "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.

"As Bree in Disney's hit Zombies franchise, Carla shared her joy, humor, and bright spirit with audiences around the world. Carla was more than a client; she was family.

"Our hearts are with Carla's family and loved ones during this devastating time. We respectfully ask that their privacy be honored as they grieve this unimaginable loss."

Jeffery played cheerleader Bree Prattle in Disney's three Zombies movies between 2018 and 2022, and voiced the character in 2024's TV show Zombies: The Re-Animated Series .

The actor's Zombies castmates have paid tribute to her. Chandler Kinney remembered Jeffery as "the sweetest, most sparkly gal." She wrote on Instagram , "This doesn't feel real. You made every day better and brighter with your infectious positivity."

Milo Manheim wrote, "Love you Carlaboo, the sweetest, kindest, most loving person."

Trevor Tordjman wrote, "Carla, you will be missed. Will never forget your energy. Truly one of a kind."

Erika Ishii wrote, "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. Deepest condolences to her family and friends."

In a statement, Disney Entertainment Television said: "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.

"We will remember Carla for her generosity, her humor and the genuine light she brought to those around her. We offer our deepest condolences to her family and loved ones, her castmates and collaborators, and the countless fans whose lives she touched."

Jeffery made her acting debut in 2006's romantic comedy Phat Girlz. She also appeared in shows including Curb Your Enthusiasm , the Nickelodeon sitcom iCarly and Disney Channel's Shake It Up .

She had previously spoken out about having epilepsy, which she said she initially did not want to talk to her colleagues or manager about.

"When I first got into acting, I was not comfortable talking about my epilepsy," Jeffery told the Epilepsy Foundation in 2022 , having opened up about her condition after suffering a seizure on the set of Zombies.

"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 realize there was more to me than just my epilepsy."

She added: "I want everyone to know not to be scared of who you are. I've had this for years, and it's not going anywhere. I just have to work around it. I'm going to keep doing what I love, and at the same time, use my story to help others. I want to be an inspiration."

No cause of death has been confirmed as yet and there has been no indication that the death was linked to Jeffery's epilepsy.

She was the twin sister of fellow actor Carlon Jeffery, who appeared in Disney Channel's A.N.T. Farm .