Actress Carla Jeffery, whose energetic performance as Bree made her a familiar face to a generation of Disney Channel viewers, has died at the age of 33.
Jeffery died on September 1, according to her longtime representatives at Alexanders Talent Management. A cause of death has not been made public.
Her death brings an unexpectedly early end to a career that began when Jeffery was only 12 years old and ultimately spanned two decades.
One of her earliest movie appearances came in the 2006 comedy Phat Girlz, where she appeared alongside Mo’Nique. Jeffery went on to build an extensive television résumé, taking roles in series including Curb Your Enthusiasm, iCarly, Southland, Good Luck Charlie, Shake It Up! and American Vandal.
For millions of Disney fans, however, Jeffery will remain most closely associated with Seabrook High.
She originated the role of Bree in the 2018 Disney Channel Original Movie Zombies. As Addison’s best friend and a member of the school’s cheerleading squad, Bree became part of the colorful ensemble that helped turn the musical into a successful franchise.
Jeffery returned to the character for Zombies 2 in 2020 and Zombies 3 in 2022. Her connection to the franchise continued beyond the live-action films when she provided Bree’s voice for Zombies: The Re-Animated Series.
The role combined Jeffery’s acting career with a genuine interest in cheerleading. She had participated in competitive cheerleading when she was younger, an experience that gave her an unusual real-life connection to the character audiences came to know on screen.
News of Jeffery’s death prompted tributes from members of the Zombies family, with former co-stars remembering the actress for the warmth, humor and positive energy she brought to those around her.
Her passing also leaves behind a body of work stretching well beyond the Disney franchise that made her especially recognizable. From comedy to children’s television and teen entertainment, Jeffery steadily worked across film and television from childhood into adulthood.
Alexanders Talent Management, which had represented Jeffery since she was 12, asked that the privacy of her family and loved ones be respected as they mourn.
For fans who grew up watching Bree cheer her way through the supernatural world of Seabrook, Jeffery’s work remains part of a franchise built around friendship, acceptance and finding a place to belong. At just 33, her career ended far sooner than anyone could have expected, but the characters and performances she left behind will continue to introduce her talent to new audiences.
