'B*A*P*S' and 'Cinderella' Actress Natalie Desselle-Reid Has Died at Age 53

From Harper's BAZAAR

Actress and comedian Natalie Desselle-Reid has passed away after losing a private battle with colon cancer, reported TMZ. She was 53 years old.

Desselle-Reid was best known for her standout work in prolific films and television shows not limited to 1997's B*A*P*S alongside Halle Berry and Rodgers and Hammerstein's Cinderella starring Brandy and Whitney Houston. The comedian also had roles in Eve's early aughts sitcom, Eve, and Tyler Perry's Madea's Big Happy Family.

A family member of Desselle-Reid's confirmed her passing to TMZ and revealed that she had been diagnosed with colon cancer earlier this year. She reportedly was in hospice care in her final days and was surrounded by family when she passed.

"It is with extremely heavy hearts that we share the loss of our beautiful Natalie this morning. She was a bright light in this world. A queen. An extraordinary mother and wife," read a statement from the actress's family.

Fans and former costars quickly took to social media to express their condolences over the news of Desselle-Reid's passing and reminiscing over memories they shared with the actress.

"Just absolutely decimated by this news... Actress Natalie Desselle, a bright shining star passed away this morning. I got to know her when my mom was managing her," wrote Holly Robinson Peete on Twitter. "She will be so missed...sending out prayers to her children and husband. Rest In Peace, Sweet Girl."

"Just heard the passing of #NatalieDesselleReid She was beyond kind and I'm grateful we were able to share a few conversations together," wrote Orange Is the New Black's Danielle Brooks. "I stand on her shoulders, and I will make sure to always remind people of her legacy and contribution to this industry."

Berry also shared a brief reaction to the news, acknowledging that she was still in shock and needed more time to process the death of her former costar. The actress shared her note with a sentimental GIF of the two actresses in a scene from B*A*P*S, smiling and embracing each other.

"I'm in total shock... completely heartbroken. gonna need a minute. #RIP @NatalieDesselle," wrote Berry.

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