Carla Jeffery, Best Known for Disney's Zombies, Passes Away at Age 33

Her first major film role came at age 12, portraying a younger version of Mo'Nique's character in the 2006 comedy Phat Boyz.
Zombies co-stars publicly honored her with heartfelt tributes, including Milo Manheim calling her 'the sweetest person I have ever met' and Chandler Kinney praising her as 'the brightest shining light in any room she walked into.'
Bree, Jeffery’s signature Zombies character, first appeared in the Zombies franchise in 2018 and remained a defining role across the series and related material.
Her final public post before her death was to celebrate Zombies costar Meg Donnelly's birthday in July, reflecting her personal connection with colleagues.
Alexanders Talent Management issued a memorial statement noting she joined the agency at age 12 and described her as a long-time, vibrant presence; the agency also asked for privacy for her family during this time.
Carla Jeffery, the Disney Channel actress best known for playing cheerleader Bree in the Zombies franchise, died on September 1 at age 33. No cause of death has been released. Her longtime agency, Alexander's Talent Management, confirmed her passing and called her "more than a client; she was family" after representing her for over 20 years.
Jeffery's Zombies castmates rushed to social media with tributes. Milo Manheim called her "the sweetest person I have ever met," while Chandler Kinney praised her as "the brightest shining light in any room she walked into." Her final public post in July celebrated costar Meg Donnelly's birthday.
Jeffery started acting at age 12 after signing with Alexander's Talent Management in 2005. Her film debut came in Phat Girlz (2006), where she played a young version of Mo'Nique's character. Before Zombies, she built a steady TV career with roles on HBO's Curb Your Enthusiasm, Southland, and Disney Channel shows like Shake It Up and Good Luck Charlie.
Jeffery joined the Zombies franchise in 2018, playing Bree across three films and later the Zombies: The Re-Animated Series. The franchise became her signature role and connected her to millions of young viewers. Her work spanned over 20 television and film credits across major networks including Netflix, NBC, and Fox.
The Zombies cast immediately posted heartfelt messages online. Beyond Manheim and Kinney, Trevor Tordjman, Meg Donnelly, and other Disney Channel alumni shared their memories. Many emphasized her warmth, humor, and kindness both on and off set. Her final social media post celebrated Donnelly just two months before her death.
Alexander's Talent Management released a statement: "For more than 20 years, we had the privilege of watching her grow into a beautiful, vibrant woman whose radiant smile could light up any room." The agency asked for privacy for her family during this time and did not disclose a cause of death.
The Zombies franchise became a cultural touchstone for kids and teens who grew up in the 2010s and 2020s. Jeffery's cheerful Bree character resonated across three films. Houston native Jeffery also worked behind the scenes teaching acting classes and mentoring young performers in the industry.
Millions of Disney+ viewers watched her bring Bree to life across the franchise. The sudden loss at 33 shocked fans and colleagues alike. Her legacy remains tied to a beloved series that introduced countless young viewers to her infectious energy and comedic timing.
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