Esta TerBlanche, best known for starring in All My Children, has died aged 51.

The South African star passed away on Thursday (July 18) at her home, according to the County of Los Angeles Medical Examiner. Her cause of death is under investigation.

Her publicist, Lisa Rodrigo, confirmed the heartbreaking news on Facebook, writing: “I can not believe I am posting this. It’s with a heavy heart that my friend and client Esta TerBlanche passed away Thursday of natural causes.

"An autopsy report is pending. I am still processing and in shock."

She continued: “Esta was a beautiful soul in and out. I was proud to know her and work with her. More to come in the days ahead.

"Thank you for the messages so far. If I haven’t gotten to you, I will soon," she concluded. “May she RIP with the angels that she is.”

TerBlanche was born on January 7, 1973, in Rustenburg, a city in the North West province of South Africa. 

She found fame after playing the troublesome Hungarian princess Gillian on the soap opera from 1997 to 2001. Her storyline with Cameron Mathison’s Ryan Lavery was extremely popular with viewers.

Esta TerBlanche has died aged 51. Credit: Frank Trapper / Getty

The star's appearance on the series ended when Lavery removed Gillian from life support after an assassin shot her in a case of mistaken identity. 

She returned as Gillian’s ghost for one episode in 2011, as the TV drama concluded its four-decade run on ABC.

“When I came back, it was really emotional for me and Cameron. When we saw each other, we both started bawling,” TerBlanche told Soap Opera Digest in an interview published on July 13. “Back then, we hadn’t seen each other for years, so it was such a touching moment for us.”

The actress returned to South Africa after completing her run on All My Children and opened a spa. She also worked with filmmaker Michael Kastenbaum on documentaries and hosted television shows like Supermodel and Carte Blanche.

Esta TerBlanche and Cameron Mathison. Credit: Ron Galella, Ltd. / Getty

Many fans have taken to social media to express their sadness over the devastating news of TerBlanche's passing.

"Rest in Peace Esta TerBlanche. Thank you for entertaining us with your beautiful and captivating performance. We will miss you, Princess," one user wrote.

"R. I. P. Esta TerBlanche, may flights of angels sing you to your rest. Never had the fortune to meet Esta, but from everything anyone who has they say she was the genuine charm you saw on screen; maybe that's why we loved her so much on All My Children wanting to see her again," a second shared.

A third added: "Our thoughts & prayers go out to Esta TerBlanche's family, friends, & colleagues. RIP Esta."

Cameron Mathison paid tribute to his beloved co-star. Credit: Instagram/Cameron Mathison

TerBlanche's costar Mathison also shared a tribute post on his Instagram Story, writing that the late actress helped him last year when his dog was "sick and paralyzed," adding: "One of the sweetest people ever."

Our thoughts are with the actress' family and friends at this heartbreaking time.

Featured image credit: Frank Trapper / Getty

Charlbi Dean's cause of death has been determined by a coroner after her tragic passing.

On August 29, TMZ reported that the South African actress - best known for her recurring role as Syonidein in the DC Comics series Black Lightning - died from an unexpected and sudden illness at the age of 32.

At the time, the cause of death for the actress - whose full name is Charlbi Dean Kriek - was not revealed in media reports.

However, a spokesperson for the New York City Office of Chief Medical Examiner has now confirmed to People on December 21 that Dean passed away from bacterial sepsis.

The spokesperson told the publication that the sepsis "was a complication from asplenia" (the absence of a spleen) due to "remote blunt trauma to her torso".

A New York City Medical Examiner explained that Dean's bacterial sepsis came about after she was infected with bacteria known as Capnocytophaga.

According to the CDC, there are different species of Capnocytophaga that form in the mouths of humans. In addition to this, people who have autoimmune issues and those without spleens are particularly sensitive to rare infections.

While Dean's death has been ruled an accident, it is uncertain if an animal lick or bite was the cause for her infections as the medical examiner has not made her full autopsy public.

Days after the Spud actress suddenly passed away, her brother Alex Jacobs revealed to Rolling Stone that her death happened after she began experiencing "minor" symptoms.

After feeling faint, the model asked her fiancé, Luke Volker, to take her to the emergency room, but she tragically died just hours later.

"This happened literally within the span of a day: getting a headache, going to sleep, waking up her boyfriend and saying please take me to the hospital," Jacobs told the publication at the time.

"We still aren't entirely sure [what happened]," the brother said. "There's an autopsy being done which we know might take quite a while. But what we have heard [that] there was a viral infection in her lungs."

Jacobs also disclosed to the outlet that his sister was involved in a "very, very bad car accident" around 2009, after which doctors removed her spleen. She also suffered broken ribs and a broken back in the accident.

"[The spleen is] involved in fighting off infections, and that could have had something to do with what happened," Jacobs said. "Her spleen not being there just added on to the reason why she perhaps couldn't fight it off."

After her death, Dean's partner, Volker, posted a video on his social media to express gratitude for messages he received after the death of his fiancée.

"Hi, everyone. I wanted to just post a picture of Charlbi, but it's a bit hard," the model said. "And just wanted to let you know I see all your messages, all the love, and I appreciate it. I really do. It's just I can't really reply to them right now. But thank you, guys. I appreciate it. I love you."

Our thoughts continue to be with Dean's family, friends and fans at this time.

Featured image credit: Image Press Agency / Alamy

Leslie Charleson tragically died aged 79 in January, and her cause of death has now been revealed.

Best known for her portrayal of Monica Quartermaine on General Hospital, Charleson played the role for nearly five decades, making her the longest-tenured cast member on the iconic ABC soap opera.

The news of her passing was confirmed by General Hospital executive producer Frank Valentini, who shared a heartfelt statement on the show's official Instagram account.

"It is with a heavy heart that I announce the passing of my dear friend and colleague, Leslie Charleson," he wrote. "Her enduring legacy has spanned nearly 50 years on General Hospital alone and, just as Monica was the heart of the Quartermaines, Leslie was a beloved matriarch of the entire cast and crew.

"I will miss our daily chats, her quick wit, and incredible presence on set. On behalf of everyone at General Hospital, my heartfelt sympathy goes out to her loved ones during this difficult time."

Charleson joined General Hospital in 1977, appearing in more than 2,000 episodes. She also reprised her role as Monica Quartermaine in the spin-offs General Hospital: Night Shift and Port Charles.

Before her legendary tenure on the soap opera, Charleson began her acting career in the 1960s, with early roles in A Flame in the Wind and As the World Turns.

She later starred in Love Is a Many Splendored Thing, appearing in over 1,400 episodes.

Her work in daytime television helped her gain recognition in Hollywood, leading to guest roles in other popular series, including Happy Days, where she played Mrs. Dorothy Kimber.

Charleson also made a cameo appearance as herself on Friends and had a minor role in The Return of the Muskrats.

Her cause of death was listed as "sequelae of blunt head trauma," meaning complications from a previous head injury, documents obtained by TMZ confirm.

While the exact timing of the injury remains unclear, Charleson had suffered multiple falls in recent years, which ultimately led to her stepping away from her acting career.

The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner also noted that Charleson had a history of asthma, arthritis, atrial fibrillation, and normal pressure hydrocephalus - a condition that causes cerebrospinal fluid to build up in the brain, according to the report.

Our thoughts are with Charleson's fans and loved ones at this difficult time.

Featured image credit: Jean-Paul Aussenard/WireImage/Getty Images

More heartbreaking details have emerged following the tragic death of Michelle Trachtenberg.

The beloved actress - known for her roles in hit shows like Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Gossip Girl - tragically passed away on Wednesday (Feb 26) at the age of 39.

Now, TMZ has reported that law enforcement sources have stated that Trachtenberg was found "unconscious and unresponsive" in bed at her Manhattan apartment by her mother, Lana.

Mom Lana then called the police and paramedics. Despite the immediate emergency response, Trachtenberg was pronounced dead at the scene.

“It is with great sadness to confirm that Michelle Trachtenberg has passed away. The family requests privacy for their loss,” Trachtenberg’s representative, Gary Mantoosh, confirmed in a statement.

Her death comes just months after reportedly undergoing a liver transplant, per the New York Post. Sources have also corroborated this news to PEOPLE.

While the official cause of death has yet to be determined, reports indicate that complications from her transplant may have played a role. However, authorities have stated there is no suspicion of foul play.

The New York City medical examiner is set to conduct an autopsy.

Law enforcement sources confirm that Trachtenberg was last seen alive around 10:00PM Tuesday and had recently been out with friends, showing no immediate signs of distress.

Trachtenberg 'Knew That Death Was A High Possibility', Friend Says

Trachtenberg was aware of the severity of her health issues in the months leading up to her death, according to her friend Amanda de Cadenet.

De Cadenet, a photographer and TV host, shared an emotional tribute on Instagram, writing: "I will not share the details of our conversations over the last 6 months, but you knew that death was a high possibility and I am only sorry that the outcome was not a better one."

In her initial post — later edited, per PageSix — she recalled a FaceTime call with Trachtenberg from a hospital bed. Though the actress’s appearance had changed, de Cadenet said her spirit remained intact.

"I will always remember you as the young vivacious woman I met when I took this photo of you … and seeing your face from the hospital bed when we FaceTimed recently, even though you did not look like you, your sweetness and humor were still alive," she wrote.

While de Cadenet chose to keep the details of their conversations private, she confirmed that Trachtenberg had come to terms with the seriousness of her condition and the possibility of a tragic outcome. She ended her message by wishing her late friend peace.

A Career That Defined a Generation

Born on October 11, 1985, in New York City, Trachtenberg began her career at just three years old.

She became known for appearing in some of the most popular shows and movies from the 90s and 00s -- making her a beloved star for millennials in particular as they grew up with her work.

Trachtenberg quickly rose to prominence with her role on The Adventures of Pete & Pete, before breaking into mainstream success with Harriet the Spy in 1996. She became a household name as Dawn Summers in Buffy the Vampire Slayer and later as Georgina Sparks in Gossip Girl.

Her film credits include EuroTrip, Ice Princess, and 17 Again, making her a staple in the early 2000s teen movie scene.

Heartfelt Tributes from Hollywood

News of Michelle’s passing has shaken the entertainment industry, with co-stars and fellow actors paying their respects.

Rosie O’Donnell, who worked with Trachtenberg on Harriet the Spy, described the loss as “heartbreaking,” sharing: “I loved her very much. She struggled the last few years. I wish I could have helped.”

Ed Westwick, who played Chuck Bass on Gossip Girl, wrote on Instagram Stories: “So sad to hear of the passing of @michelletrachtenberg. Sending prayers.”

David Boreanaz, her Buffy co-star, also expressed his sorrow: “So very sad … horrible news. RIP and prayers to her and her family.”

Alyson Hannigan, who played Willow on Buffy, reflected: “I am deeply saddened by the news of Michelle’s passing. She brought a loving energy to the set of Buffy. My thoughts are with Michelle’s family and friends.”

Fellow Buffy actor Emma Caulfield added: “Our Buffy family lost a little sister today … Rest in peace lovely Mish Mish. You are loved.”

James Marsters, known for playing Spike, praised Michelle’s intelligence and humor, writing: “My heart is heavy today. We have lost a beautiful soul. She was fiercely intelligent, howlingly funny, and a very talented person. She died much too young.”

Nickelodeon alum Kenan Thompson also paid tribute, writing: "Our first Nick movie star has departed us!! She was my friend and now she rests!! Check on your people!!!"

Her ex-boyfriend, X-Men actor Shawn Ashmore, also reminisced in a heartfelt tribute: "Incredibly sad to hear about Michelle’s passing.

"She was an incredible person and I will always remember the years we spent together fondly. She was loving, quirky and would never pass up a law and order SVU marathon:"

Ashmore added: "My condolences to her mother Lana and sister Irene! This is an incredible loss!"

Final Social Media Posts and Fan Tributes

Just days before her passing, Michelle shared a throwback Instagram post of herself in a green dress, playfully captioning it: “I wanted to look like naughty #Tinkerbell.” The post has since been flooded with messages from devastated fans.

One commenter wrote: “Rest in peace. Thank you for raising us all with your endless iconic roles.” Another shared a heartfelt memory:

“I met you once at an airport about 18 years ago, coming back from deployment. You sat and talked with me for about 45 minutes when you didn’t have to while we were waiting on our flight to Chicago. I kept that picture all the way up until last year when my computer crashed and it was lost. Thanks for the conversation and the memory, Michelle. Fair winds and following seas wherever your eternity lies.”

Last year, fans had expressed concern over her appearance, with many speculating about her health. Michelle, however, fiercely defended herself, stating she was “happy and healthy.”

“Explain to me how I look sick,” she wrote in response to a follower’s comment last January. She also pushed back against those who still saw her as the child star they grew up with, saying: “Did you lose a calendar and not realize I’m not 14? I’m 38. How sad for you to leave such a comment.”

“I’ve received several comments recently about my appearance. I have never had plastic surgery. I am happy and healthy. Check yourself, haters," the actress wrote in a follow-up post.

Trachtenberg’s passing is a devastating loss for Hollywood and for the fans who grew up watching her on screen. While questions remain about the circumstances of her death, one thing is certain: her talent and impact will not be forgotten.

Her family has requested privacy during this difficult time, TMZ adds

Our thoughts continue to go out to Trachtenberg's family, friends, and fans at this time.

Featured image credit: Gilbert Flores/WWD via Getty Images

Ashley Barnett’s acting career was finally gaining momentum when she boarded a Carnival cruise to celebrate her upcoming 25th birthday.

Instead, the 24-year-old was found dead in her cabin less than 24 hours after setting sail, leaving behind a grieving family and a mystery that remains unresolved two decades later.

Now, her mother, Jamie Barnett, has spoken out in a heartbreaking interview, saying Ashley’s death in October 2005 was never properly investigated and was quickly brushed aside as the ship continued its party schedule.

Ashley Barnett died at age 24. Credit: Brian VanderBrug / Getty

Ashley's Mother: "They Just Dumped Her In Mexico"

Ashley joined the three-day cruise in Long Beach, California, with her boyfriend and friends.

By 2.45pm the next day, she was pronounced dead in her cabin. Jamie received a call from the ship’s nurse hours later, around 6pm, telling her her daughter had died from an “unknown cause.”

Despite Ashley’s unexplained death, the ship continued to its scheduled stop in Ensenada, Mexico.

Jamie said her daughter’s body remained onboard for hours before being offloaded and handed over to Mexican authorities.

“I couldn’t believe it. Nobody ever came and talked to me. It was horrific,” Jamie told The Sun. “They just dumped her in Mexico. Nobody got off with her.”

The bereaved mother immediately flew to Mexico, but said she was met with silence when she arrived at the harbor. She waited four hours, hoping to speak to someone from the ship.

“I stood and stood and stood at the harbor, waiting for someone from the ship to come talk to me,” she said. “The captain just kept going and passed me by and never said a word to me.”

While Ashley’s body was taken to a morgue in Ensenada, her boyfriend and friends stayed on the ship as it sailed back to California. Jamie said the boyfriend did not contact her until the day after her daughter died.

Boyfriend’s account and the drug mystery

According to the boyfriend, the couple spent their first night on board at a show and the casino before returning to their shared cabin. He claimed an argument followed, prompting him to leave for a few hours.

He later said he returned, fell asleep next to Ashley, and went to join friends the next day, believing she was still sleeping. When he came back to the cabin around 2pm, he said he could not wake her.

He also told Jamie that some of his medications were missing.

Ashley’s autopsy in Mexico later concluded she had died from a methadone overdose. Methadone is commonly used to help people stop taking heroin, but Jamie insists the finding made no sense.

“Ashley would not have taken methadone,” she said. “How did this drug end up in her beautiful, healthy body? Who did it?”

Friends and family said Ashley was strongly anti-drugs, and her boyfriend denied ever giving her methadone.

Jamie tried to commission a second autopsy in the US, but it was refused because Ashley’s body had already been embalmed in Mexico. By then, key evidence was gone, her organs had been removed, and no crime scene had ever been preserved onboard the ship.

Jamie has unanswered questions about her daughter's mysterious death. Credit: Gina Ferazzi / Getty

Jamie Says' The high Seas Are "Lawless" Territory

Jamie says the handling of Ashley’s death exposed serious flaws in how incidents at sea are investigated.

When someone dies on a cruise ship, the crew initially holds jurisdiction, not independent law enforcement.

“There’s no independent police that’s got your best interests at heart,” she said. “The high seas are a pretty lawless territory. It’s as lawless as you can get.”

She added: “There’s no law enforcement or police. It’s just the ship’s own security staff - a few hours of online training, and suddenly they’re ‘investigators.’ It’s a total joke...I really thought the FBI would give me answers, but they told me almost nothing.”

Mexican authorities and the FBI questioned Ashley’s boyfriend early on, but no one was ever charged. The FBI still lists the case as open.

Jamie has since turned her grief into action, helping to found and lead the International Cruise Victims group, pushing for safety reforms and accountability at sea.

“You can’t just wallow in your grief and do nothing - you have to fight,” she said. “I woke up one night and thought, if this had happened to me and Ashley was the one who survived, she would have fought like a tiger to find out what happened."

“Something has to give. Something good has to come out of this horrific situation," she continued.

The mother warned that people "need to be aware of the fine print in their ticket" and "what rights they’re giving up," and added: “If I can help do something that saves anybody else from ever having to do this or go through this… that’s what I’m going to do.”

Featured image credit: Brian VanderBrug / Getty