Carla Jeffery, an actress beloved by fans for her role as Bree in the Disney Channel’s popular "Zombies" franchise, has died at the age of 33. Her longtime manager, Carla Alexander, announced the news via a statement posted to Jeffery’s Instagram account on Wednesday night. Jeffery passed away on Tuesday, September 1, though the specific cause of her death has not been publicly disclosed.
"Carla was more than a client; she was family." Carla Alexander, Longtime Manager
The announcement prompted an immediate outpouring of grief and tributes from colleagues, friends, and fans across social media and the entertainment industry. Disney Entertainment Television issued a statement acknowledging Jeffery's impact and offering condolences to her family and loved ones. "Disney Entertainment Television remembers Carla Jeffery for the impression she made on both audiences and the people who worked alongside her," the company stated, praising her talent, warmth, and ability to connect with viewers.
Jeffery rose to prominence portraying Bree, the energetic cheerleader and close friend to Addison, in the original 2018 Disney Channel movie "Zombies." She reprised the role in its sequels, "Zombies 2" and "Zombies 3," and continued her involvement as a voice actress in "Zombies: The Re-Animated Series." Her work in the franchise cemented her status as a fan favorite and introduced her to a new generation of viewers.
Her manager, Carla Alexander, who had represented Jeffery through Alexanders Talent Management since the actress was just 12 years old, spoke to the depth of their relationship. "It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of our beloved Carla Jeffery," Alexander wrote in her statement. She added, "Carla was more than a client; she was family." Alexander reflected on watching Jeffery evolve from a young performer into a successful actress over two decades, remembering her as a vibrant individual whose personality extended far beyond her on-screen performances. The management team requested privacy for Jeffery's family and loved ones during their period of mourning.
News of Jeffery's death particularly stunned many given her young age. Several of her "Zombies" co-stars shared heartfelt tributes. Chandler Kinney, who played Willa in the franchise, expressed her disbelief, stating that the news "doesn’t feel real." Kinney remembered Jeffery as someone whose positivity consistently brightened the lives of those around her and expressed gratitude for their friendship. Milo Manheim, who starred as Zed, described Jeffery as the "sweetest, kindest, most loving person" in an Instagram post featuring photographs and videos of their time together. Trevor Tordjman, known as Bucky Buchanan to "Zombies" viewers, also recalled the infectious energy Jeffery brought to the set, writing, "Carla, you will be missed," and adding that she was "truly one of a kind."
Jeffery's twin brother, actor Carlon Jeffery, also shared a tribute to his sister. Carlon, who appeared in Disney Channel’s "A.N.T. Farm," described his sister as a bright light and reflected on the unique bond they shared.
Born in Houston, Texas, Carla Jeffery began her professional acting career at the age of 12, making an early appearance in the 2006 comedy film "Phat Girlz." Her career spanned a range of television programs as she transitioned from child roles to adult acting. Her extensive television credits included guest appearances on popular shows such as "iCarly," "Good Luck Charlie," "Shake It Up," "Crazy Ex-Girlfriend," "Scream Queens," and "American Vandal." She also held a recurring role as Keysha Black in 10 episodes of HBO’s critically acclaimed comedy "Curb Your Enthusiasm." However, it was her role as Bree in the "Zombies" franchise that became most closely associated with her career and introduced her to a global audience.
As of Thursday, neither Jeffery’s management nor her family had publicly announced what caused her death. The immediate public statements and tributes consistently highlighted her humor, kindness, and energetic personality, underscoring the profound impact she had on those who knew and worked with her, as well as her dedicated fanbase.
