Erica Ash, the talented actress known for her roles on “MadTV” and various other hit shows, has passed away at the age of 46 after a brave fight with cancer. The news of her death was confirmed by BET and her family on Monday, July 29, 2024.
BET paid tribute to Ash on Instagram, stating, “Today, #BETRemembers actress and comedienne Erica Ash who has passed away at the age of 46. Known for being equal parts witty and funny, Erica starred in BET favorites such as legal drama In Contempt and reality spoof Real Husbands of Hollywood. We send our deepest condolences and love to her parents, siblings, friends, and family. Fly high Queen 🕊️.”
Ash’s family released a statement through Variety, revealing that she had been privately battling an undisclosed form of cancer. “We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our beloved daughter, sister and friend Erica Chantal Ash (1977-2024),” the statement read. “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.”
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Following the announcement, tributes poured in from colleagues and friends in the entertainment industry. Loni Love shared her grief on Instagram, posting a heartfelt message and a slideshow of memories with Ash. “I am sad to confirm my friend and fellow actress Erica Ash’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,” Love wrote. “She would always just be there … now she’s gone … My sincere condolences to her family and fans 🙏🏾🙏🏾.”
Niecy Nash also expressed her sorrow, recalling a recent text exchange with Ash. “Rest Well Pretty girl 🕊️❤️ @theericaash,” Nash, 57, captioned a photo of the two. “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 ❤️.”
Ash gained widespread recognition for her work on “MadTV” from 2008 to 2009. Her career included roles in Scary Movie 5, Uncle Drew, The Real Husbands of Hollywood, and more. In 2014, she landed a leading role in Starz’s dramedy series Survivor’s Remorse.
Mike Epps, her co-star from Survivor’s Remorse, honored her memory on social media. “RIP ERICA 🥲 gone too soon she was such a great person to work with full of life and funny and talented you left a great mark on earth 🌍 🕊️🕊️🕊️,” Epps wrote alongside a still from the series.
Erica Ash’s passing is a significant loss to the entertainment world, and her legacy of humor and talent will be remembered by many.
