ACTRESS and comedian Erica Ash has died at the age of 46 after her battle with cancer.
Erica appeared in several sketch comedy programs throughout her career and later starred in the Starz sitcom Survivor’s Remorse.
Erica appeared on MADtv and The Big Gay Sketch Show, as well as the drama series In Contempt and the reality spoof Real Husbands of Hollywood on BET.
She also appeared in films such as Scary Movie V, We Have a Ghost, and most recently, Outlaw Johnny Black.
Erica’s family confirmed that Erica died after a long battle with cancer.
“Erica was an amazing woman and talented entertainer who touched countless lives with her sharp wit, humor and genuine zest for life,” her family said in a statement.
“Her memory will live eternally in our hearts.”
The Real star and TV host Loni Love, 53, also confirmed Erica’s death in a social media post on Monday.
“Sad to confirm my friend and fellow actress Erica Ashe’s passing,” Loni wrote on X.
“Erica was talented & hilarious. Whether it was the show Survivor’s Remorse or Madtv, she would put her all into her work.
“She would always just be there.. now she’s gone.. My sincere condolences to her family.”
BET similarly shared the news in a tribute post for Erica on Instagram.
“We send our deepest condolences and love to her parents, siblings, friends, and family,” the network wrote.
“Fly high Queen.”
TOUCHING TRIBUTES
Fellow friends and celebrities have been sharing their tributes for the late actress on social media.
“Rest Well Pretty girl [dove] [heart] @theericaash,” actress Niecy Nash, 54, wrote on Instagram alongside a snap of her and Erica.
“Your last text to me was ‘I’m gonna make you my #wcw’ (Woman Crush Wednesday) 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,” she added.
Shannon Mack, host of the YouTube talk show, Pedis & Mimosas, also shared a snap with Erica from when she appeared on the series.
“Getting a call at 830AM this morning about the passing of @theericaash was not the news I wanted to wake up to. She was only 46 years old!” Shannon wrote.
“Erica was so sweet, funny, and had a genuine spirit. I can’t believe she is no longer with us,” she added.
“Thankful for the opportunity to have had her on my platform! She dropped a lot of amazing gems and I can’t wait for y’all to see it.”
Shannon also revealed that Erica would be the guest on the premiere of the show’s new season.
Erica’s In Contempt co-star, Tobias Truvillion, shared multiple photos and video clips with her from on and off screen.
“A beautiful soul. A juggernaut of creativity. Please send some positive energy for her family Erica changed my life for the better,” Tobias said.
Erica was so sweet, funny, and had a genuine spirit. I can’t believe she is no longer with us.”
Shannon Mack
“She set the bar super high for herself and everyone around her. We love you Erica. Thank you for being the masterpiece that you are. I love you.”
FOREVER REMEMBERED
Two weeks ago, Erica attended a pop-up exhibition of “Beauty Amongst Thorns” by artist J. Christopher in Los Angeles, California.
She was also at the wedding of actress Skye Marshall and actor Edwin Hodge in early July, alongside other Hollywood stars such as Kathy Bates, Sophia Bush, and Gina Rodriguez.
Erica made her last red carpet appearance at the Golden Globes Foundation Dinner at the end of January wearing a lace bodysuit and gold blazer.
Around the same time, the Florida native last posted to her Instagram feed.
On Monday, the comments section of the social media post was filled with fans who also gave their condolences.
“This makes me so incredibly sad,” one person wrote.
“Rip beautiful and talented actress . Gone too soon!” a second said.
“We love you! Thank you for sharing your gifts with us,” another commented.