An actor from The Big Bang Theory has sadly passed away, it has been confirmed.
The Big Bang Theory is beloved because it blends sharp, joke-dense writing with genuine warmth, turning a niche love of science and comics into universal stories about friendship, vulnerability, and growing up.
Fans connect to the ensemble - from “big” breakout stars like Jim Parsons, Kaley Cuoco, and Johnny Galecki to “smaller” but scene-stealing favorites like Simon Helberg, Kunal Nayyar, Mayim Bialik, and Melissa Rauch - because each character gets room to evolve: awkward geniuses learn empathy, the “cool neighbor” finds depth, and relationships feel earned rather than gimmicky.
Its recurring guest stars, memorable catchphrases, and clever cultural references reward rewatching, while the show’s heart - celebrating curiosity, loyalty, and found family - keeps it timeless beyond the punchlines.
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Sadly, it has been reported that Kimberly Hébert Gregory, an actress known for starring in many shows, including The Big Bang Theory, has died at the age of 52.
The late star's death was announced on October 3 by her ex-husband, actor Chester Gregory, who described her as “brilliance embodied” and a woman whose “presence carried both fire and grace".
"A Black woman whose mind lit every room, whose presence carried both fire and grace. You taught us lessons in courage, in artistry, in resilience, and in how to keep showing up, even when life demanded more than its share," he wrote. "Through our best, through our greatest challenges, what remained was love, respect, and a bond no storm could break."
A cause of death has not been publicly disclosed.
Tributes from Hollywood and Beyond
Actor Walton Goggins, who starred alongside Gregory in HBO’s Vice Principals, led heartfelt tributes online, calling her “one of the best I’ve ever worked with," and adding: “She made me laugh like no other," per The Independent.
Busy Philipps, who also appeared on Vice Principals, shared her devastation: “She was a light and a force. She will be missed.” Others expressing grief included Leslie Jones, Niecy Nash, and Jason Ritter, who called her “so brilliant and so kind.” Yvette Nicole Brown said: “I’m so sorry for you and your son's loss @chestergregory. And OUR loss as a community.”
In his emotional Instagram post, Gregory added: “So much more than ex-wife, you were my friend. Our son, the song we wrote together, is the living echo of your light. Through him, your brilliance will never fade. Through him, your laughter will always resound."
"Thank you, Kimberly, for every chapter we shared. Your story was never defined by the battle, but by the beauty you carried through it," he concluded.
An Accomplished Career in Theater, Film, and TV
Born on December 7, 1972, in Houston, Texas, Gregory’s passion for performance was evident from a young age.
She attended the Kinder High School for the Performing and Visual Arts, earned a psychology degree from Mount Holyoke College, a master’s in clinical social work from the University of Chicago, and later trained in acting at DePaul University’s MFA program.
Her stage career took off in the 1990s with the Chicago Theatre Company. She earned critical acclaim and a Drama Desk nomination for her role in Lynn Nottage’s By the Way, Meet Vera Stark.
Gregory then transitioned to television in 2007 with her debut on The Black Donnellys and quickly gained a reputation as one of TV’s most versatile performers.
She appeared in Gossip Girl, Grey’s Anatomy, Law & Order, Two and a Half Men, Shameless, Brooklyn Nine-Nine, Better Call Saul, The Big Bang Theory, Kevin (Probably) Saves the World, The Chi, and New Amsterdam.
Her breakout television role came as Dr. Belinda Brown in Vice Principals, where she starred opposite Danny McBride and Walton Goggins. She also portrayed Ruth Jean Baskerville Bowen in National Geographic’s Genius: Aretha, appeared in Spike Lee’s Red Hook Summer, and acted in Five Feet Apart and John Henry.
Her voice work included roles in Craig of the Creek, Carol and the End of the World, Jessica’s Big Little World, and No Activity.
Gregory was a vocal advocate for representation in the arts and mentorship for young Black women in creative fields. In a 2017 Time essay, she reflected on the importance of self-belief and persistence in an industry that often presents roadblocks.
She is survived by her son.