Actress Dee Freeman, recognized for her performance on BET’s “Sistas” and her appearances on the soap drama “The Young and the Restless,” passed away Thursday at 66 years old due to complications from Stage IV lung cancer.
Freeman’s family announced her death via Instagram, revealing she died peacefully on April 2, 2026. The family’s statement characterized her fight against cancer as “brave and fearless” and expressed gratitude to those who supported her throughout her medical struggle. They mentioned she was “blown away” by the tremendous show of support.
Her latest work included appearances in the ninth and tenth seasons of Tyler Perry’s “Sistas,” where she played Valerie Barnes, mother to Andi Barnes, the character played by KJ Smith Black. The show’s producers had extended an invitation for her to participate in season 11 prior to her passing. Her last performance aired in January.
Desirae L. Benson, Freeman’s publicist, paid tribute to the late actress with words that encapsulated her character: “Dee had a quiet power that commanded respect without ever needing to demand it.”
A Louisiana native born June 6, 1959, Freeman followed a unique route to the entertainment industry. After completing high school, she enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, allegedly on a dare, serving six years in uniform. This military background instilled discipline and strength that would characterize her personal and professional journey.
After completing her military service, Freeman began pursuing the performing arts, initially through theatrical productions before moving into television and film. Her stage career encompassed more than 80 productions throughout three decades of work.
Her first television role came in 1995 on ABC’s “Coach.” She subsequently spent over 20 years working in Los Angeles, accumulating an extensive list of guest roles on well-known series such as “Seinfeld,” “ER,” “The X-Files,” “Dexter,” “Shameless,” and “NCIS: Los Angeles.”
Her involvement with CBS’s “The Young and the Restless” spanned three episodes across 1997 and 2009. Additionally, Freeman starred as Ribina Champagne in the satirical series “Pretty the Series” between 2010 and 2015, gaining acclaim within independent television circles.
In addition to her on-screen accomplishments, Freeman maintained her passion for theater and narrative arts. When she died, she was developing a novel adaptation of her one-woman show “Poison Gun,” inspired by her own family heritage. This endeavor demonstrated her commitment to personal storytelling and independent artistic endeavors.
Family and friends recalled her resilience and composure during her final period. Her son Shane shared that when someone inquired about her wellbeing near the end, she responded, “Can’t complain. On the other side doesn’t do you any good.”
A dedicated parent, Freeman viewed her two children, Amber and Shane, as her most cherished achievements. Her survivors include her mother, brothers, and sisters.
Freeman’s death represents the loss of a multifaceted artist who excelled across television, film, and stage productions. From her beginnings as a Marine through her final work on “Sistas,” she tackled each phase of life with resolve and genuineness.
Both colleagues and admirers recall a performer who infused depth and subtlety into each performance, from extended storylines on Tyler Perry productions to single episodes on network shows. Her capacity to resonate with viewers stemmed from an authentic foundation, influenced by her distinctive background and steadfast artistic dedication.
The performing arts community has lost a gifted artist whose professional influence reached well beyond her time on screen. Her enduring legacy continues through her artistic contributions, her children, and the numerous individuals who were moved by her elegance, fortitude, and quiet power.
