Erica Ash, an actress and comedian known for her roles on the Starz television series “Survivor’s Remorse” and the sketch comedy show “Mad TV,” died on Sunday at the age of 46.
“We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our beloved daughter, sister, and friend,” the actress’s mother, Diann Ash, wrote in a statement. “After a long and courageous battle with cancer, she transitioned peacefully surrounded by her loved ones.
“Erica was an amazing woman and talented entertainer who touched countless lives with her sharp wit, humor, and genuine zest for life. Her memory will live eternally in our hearts.”
After starring in the 2001 comedy-drama “All About Our House,” Ms. Ash went on to become a cast member on the 14th and final season of “Mad TV,” which aired from 2008 to 2009.
The actress appeared in the 2013 comedy horror film “Scary Movie V,” which featured a star-studded cast of actors, including Charlie Sheen, Lindsay Lohan, Terry Crews, Ashley Tisdale, and Sarah Hyland.
That same year, Ms. Ash landed a recurring role on “The Real Husbands of Hollywood,” playing Bridgette Hart in the BET parody reality show, co-created by comedian Kevin Hart. She later starred in “Survivor’s Remorse,” executive-produced by professional basketball player LeBron James, and BET’s legal drama series “In Contempt.”
Ms. Ash’s other credits include “Shades of Blue” (2016), “Post Life” (2016), “Uncle Drew” (2018), “Legacies” (2019), “Violet” (2021), “The Big Bend” (2021), and “Outlaw Johnny Black” (2023). More recently, Ms. Ash appeared in a 2024 episode of the NBC sitcom “Extended Family.”
Tributes Pour In
Many of Ms. Ash’s costars and fellow entertainers took to social media to pay their respects following the actress’s passing.
“RIP ERICA,” comedian Mike Epps wrote on Instagram. “She was such a great person to work with full of life and funny and talent you left a great mark on earth.”
“Rest Well Pretty girl,” wrote actress Niecy Nash. “Your last text to me was ‘I’m gonna make you my #wcw’ Then we had a good keke. You will be missed! Thank you for all the laughs! Sending my deepest condolences to your family & loved ones.”
Comedian and television host Loni Love also paid tribute to Ms. Ash on the platform, writing that she was sad to confirm her friend’s passing.
“Erica was talented and hilarious whether it was the show Survivor’s Remorse or Madtv she would put her all into her work,” Ms. Love wrote. “She would always just be there.. now she’s gone.. My sincere condolences to her family and fans.”
Former California State Rep. Sebastian Ridley-Thomas issued a statement on X, calling Ms. Ash “a wonderful actress and an [even] better Christian.” He added, “God rest her soul.”
“It saddens me to confirm that our beloved sister @TheEricaAsh is now an ancestor. She was 46. Erica was an amazing talented, funny, and serious actress. I adored her,” wrote political commentator Roland Martin. “Pray for her family.”
In a message shared on its official Instagram account, BET wrote that Ms. Ash was “known for being equal parts witty and funny.”
“We send our deepest condolences and love to her parents, siblings, friends, and family,” the network’s statement said. “Fly high Queen.”
Following her death, Ms. Ash’s mother asked that donations be made to a breast cancer organization, such as the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, in honor of her daughter’s memory, writing that her family is “grateful for the kind expressions of love and support during this difficult time.”
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
From The Epoch Times