US TV star Erica Ash dead at 46 after ‘long and courageous battle’

A comic actress whose work included the television sketch show MADtv has died at 46 following a “long and courageous” health battle.

Actress Erica Ash, whose work included Real Husbands of Hollywood, Survivor’s Remorse and MADtv, died on Sunday (July 28). She was 46.

The news of her passing was confirmed to Decider by her publicist, who shared the following statement from Ash’s mother, Diann Ash:

“We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our beloved daughter, sister, and friend Erica Chantal Ash (1977-2024),” the statement reads. “After a long and courageous battle with cancer, she transitioned peacefully surrounded by her loved ones. Erica was an amazing woman and talented entertainer who touched countless lives with her sharp wit, humour, and genuine zest for life.

Ash appeared in many TV comedies including sketch show MADtv. Picture: Getty

She died after a long battle with cancer. Picture: Getty

The statement continues, “Her memory will live eternally in our hearts. In honour of Erica’ [sic] memory, the family asks that any donations be made to the Susan G. Komen Cancer Foundation or the Breast Cancer Foundation of your choice. We are grateful for the kind expressions of love and support during this difficult time.”

Her legal representative also confirmed the news to Decider, requesting that everyone keep her family in prayer.

“Erica was a young bright star in every room and an enormous talent in comedy and drama that has gone too soon,” he shared.

The news of her passing was first shared on social media by BET, the network home to Real Husbands of Hollywood and In Contempt, in which Ash starred as Bridgette Hart and Gwen Sullivan, respectively.

Tributes are flowing for the prolific TV and film actress. Picture: Getty

Comedian and TV host Loni Love also confirmed the news in a tribute on social media, where she wrote, in part, “Erica was talented and hilarious whether it was the show Survivor’s Remorse or Madtv she would put her all into her work. She would always just be there. now she’s gone. My sincere condolences to her family and fans.”

One of Ash’s first big TV gigs was earned on The Big Gay Sketch Show, which would be followed by credits on Cold Case, Shades of Blue, Legacies, Bless the Harts, A Black Lady Sketch Show and Family Reunion, among others. Ash earned her most recent TV credit in an episode of Extended Family.

Ash also appeared in films like Scary Movie V, Jean of the Joneses, All I Wish, Miss Me This Christmas, You Can’t Fight Christmas, Uncle Drew, Violet and Horror Noire.

Her most recent film credits were We Have A Ghost and Outlaw Johnny Black, both of which were released in 2023.

This story originally appeared on Decider and is republished here with permission.