South African actress and model Charlbi Dean has died at the age of 32.
A representative for the actress told TMZ the star died after a “sudden illness” on Monday, August 29 in New York City.
Dean is known for starring in CW’s Black Lightning and the upcoming 2022 film and Cannes Film Festival acclaimed Triangle of Sadness, where she stars alongside Woody Harrelson.
The satirical dark comedy had won the Palme d’Or, which is the highest prize awarded at Cannes.
Born and raised in Cape Town as Charlbi Dean Kriek, Dean signed with a modeling agency at age 12 and made her screen debut in the 2010 South African film Spud, starring Troye Sivan.
She reprised her role in the sequel for Spud in 2013 and also appeared in CBS’ Elementary.
Her acting catalogue includes films Don’t Sleep, An Interview With God and Wedding Swingers before playing Syonide in the Black Lightning series in 2018.
Dean had previously survived a car crash alongside another model friend in October 2008, but was subsequently hospitalised.
Tributes have poured in for the late star including fans taking to post on social media.
A film critic tweeted: “What a massive shock and tragedy. She’s so witty and deadpan and clockwork-precise in Triangle of Sadness, and I was so excited to see a new South African talent on the international scene. My thoughts are with all her loved ones and collaborators.”
rest in peace charlbi dean. she was one of ana’s bestest friends 💔 pic.twitter.com/f4a7J9uz4v
— best of ana de armas (@adafiles) August 30, 2022
