Disney Channel actress Carla Jeffery, who starred as Bree in the popular Zombies musical film franchise, has died at the age of 33, her talent management agency announced on Wednesday.
Alexanders Talent Management shared the news in a statement posted to Instagram, revealing that the actress passed away on September 1, 2026. The agency did not disclose a cause of death for Jeffery.
The talent agency, which began representing Jeffery when she was 12 years old, paid emotional tribute to her life and career following more than two decades of working together.
"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 began.
"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," the agency added.
Alexanders Talent Management highlighted her memorable performance as Bree in Disney's Zombies movies, through which she "shared her joy, humor and bright spirit with audiences around the world."
"Carla was more than a client," the agency statement continued. "She was family."
Asking for privacy on behalf of her relatives, the statement added: "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."
The agency concluded its message with a final message of farewell: "Rest beautifully, Carla. Your light will never be forgotten."
Role in Disney Zombies franchise and final post
Jeffery gained widespread recognition playing Bree, a cheerleader who is close friends with Meg, played by actress Meg Donnelly, in Disney Channel's hit Zombies franchise.
She starred in the first three feature installments of the Zombies movie series for the network, before reprising her character in 2024 for the animated series Zombies: The Re-Animated Series. Her participation in the television franchise appears to have ended following that animated project.
Jeffery shared her final public Instagram post on July 26, featuring highlights and selfies from a birthday celebration for her friend and Zombies costar Meg Donnelly.
Captioning the photo post, Jeffery wrote: "What A Night !. Hope You Had An Amazing Birthday @megdonnelly Cuz iHad An Amazing Night Girl ! lol You Always Know How To Bring The Looks &The Party, Queen ! Love Youu MegBoo !! ❤️❤️"
Tributes from Disney Channel costars
Following the public announcement of her death, fellow Disney Channel actors and costars from across the Zombies franchise flooded social media with tributes to honor her memory.
Chandler Kinney, who played Willa in the Zombies movies, expressed her grief and disbelief in the comments of the announcement. She wrote that Jeffery was "the brightest shining light in any room she walked into. the kindest person you’d ever meet. the most beautiful soul," adding, "this doesn’t feel real….."
Milo Manheim, who starred in the series as Zed, paid tribute to her character, writing: "Carla. The sweetest person I have ever met. I love you."
Ariel Martin, who played Wynter in the franchise, wrote: "Carla i am at a loss. I love you I love you I love you I love you."
Trevor Tordjman, who portrayed Bucky, expressed his sorrow, writing: "At a loss for words right now.. i’ll never forget your energy and spirit Carla." His wife, Jordan Clark, added: "Gone way too soon you beautiful soul."
Pearce Joza, who starred as Wyatt in the movies, shared a brief message: "I love you, Carla." Swayam Bhatia, who played Vera, wrote: "rest in peace Carla. We love you."
Mekonnen Knife, who played Vargas, posted: "Rip beautiful soul." Noah Zulfikar, who plays Jacey, referred to Jeffery as "the brightest light" before adding, "rest peacefully Carla."
Diaana Babnicova, who joins the upcoming film Zombies 5 as Pear, also commented: "Rest in peace beautiful."
Acting career and television credits
Jeffery was born in Houston, Texas, in 1993 and began acting as a child, according to details reported by The Sun.
Her initial acting role came in the 2006 romantic comedy film Phat Girlz, which starred Mo'Nique.
In addition to her work with the Disney Channel, Jeffery logged recurring roles across mainstream television. She appeared in 10 episodes of Larry David's acclaimed HBO comedy series Curb Your Enthusiasm between 2007 and 2009.
In 2017, she appeared in multiple episodes of Netflix's true crime mockumentary series American Vandal.
Her television resume also includes four episodes of the police drama series Southland in 2009, as well as guest appearances on Nickelodeon's iCarly, Fox's Scream Queens, the musical comedy series Crazy Ex-Girlfriend, and the sci-fi drama Torchwood.
Jeffery comes from an artistic family. Her twin brother, Carlon Jeffery, is also an actor and rapper.
