Natalie Desselle-Reid, the actress famous for her role as Mickey in the 1997 film B.A.P.S., has passed away at 53 years old.
According to TMZ, the actress died of colon cancer after she was diagnosed earlier this year. She reportedly spent her final days in hospice care and passed away among family and friends.
“It is with extremely heavy hearts that we share the loss of our beautiful Natalie this morning,” read an official statement from Desselle-Reid’s family. “She was a bright light in this world. A queen. An extraordinary mother and wife.”
Over the years, Desselle-Reid acted in several Black films, including B.A.P.S., Def Jam’s How to Be a Player, Madea’s Big Happy Family and Brandy’s version of Cinderella. She also graced the small screen, making appearances in “Built to Last,” “For Your Love ,” and the UPN series, “Eve.”
The news of Desselle-Reid’s death has been met with heartfelt tributes from her peers. Halle Berry, who played her sidekick in B.A.P.S., posted a GIF that captured a moment from the film where the two embraced each other in a hug. “I’m in total shock. Completely heartbroken. I’m gonna need a minute. #RIP,” she captioned the post.
Bow Wow remembered the actress as they both starred in Madea’s Big Happy Family. “Sending my love and condolences out to Natalie Desselle family,” he wrote in a tweet. “Had the pleasure of working with her on Tyler Perry’s Madea Big Happy Family sending my love.”
Fellow actress Holly Robinson Peete referred to Desselle-Reid as “a bright shining star,” and “Orange is the New Black” star Danielle Brooks promised to help carry out the actress’ legacy.
“Just heard the passing of #NatalieDesselleReid,” she wrote. “She was beyond kind, and I’m grateful we were able to share a few conversations together. I stand on her shoulders, and I will make sure to always remind people of her legacy and contribution to this industry.”
REVOLT sends our prayers and condolences to Desselle-Reid’s family and friends during this tough time.