Carla Jeffery, star of Disney Channel’s ‘Zombies,’ dies at 33

Carla Jeffery, best known for her role in the Disney Channel movie franchise “Zombies,” died Tuesday.

Jeffery’s manager, Carla Alexander, shared the news in a post on the actor’s Instagram page Wednesday night.

“It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of our beloved Carla Jeffery, who passed away on September 1, 2026, at just 33 years old,” the statement read.

The post said that Jeffery joined the Alexanders Talent Management group when she was just 12.

“For more than 20 years, we had the privilege of watching her grow into a beautiful, vibrant, and incredibly talented woman whose radiant smile could light up any room,” Alexander wrote in the statement. “Carla was more than a client; she was family.”

Jeffery played cheerleader Bree in “Zombies,” according to the statement, and “shared her joy, humor, and bright spirit with audiences around the world.”

The statement asked for privacy for Jeffery’s loved ones.

In a statement, Disney Entertainment Television offered condolences to Jeffery’s family and loved ones, as well as “her castmates and collaborators, and the countless fans whose lives she touched.”

“Carla Jeffery’s extraordinary talent, warmth and spirit left an indelible mark on everyone who had the privilege of working with her. She had a rare gift for connecting with audiences, and her performances brought joy to millions,” the statement said. “We will remember Carla for her generosity, her humor and the genuine light she brought to those around her.”

Jeffery’s “Zombies” co-stars were swift to share tributes in the hours following the announcement.

Chandler Kinney, who played alongside Jeffery as Willa, said her death “doesn’t feel real.” She called Jeffery a “sparkly gal. you made every day better and brighter with your infectious positivity,” she wrote online. “I feel so grateful to have known your love.”

Milo Manheim, who played Zed, posted pictures and videos of himself and Jeffery on his Instagram story. One was captioned, “Love you Carlaboo. The sweetest, kindest, most loving person.”

Trevor Tordjman, who held the role of Bucky Buchanan, also posted tributes to Jeffery online.

“Carla, you will be missed,” he wrote. “Will never forget your energy. Truly one of a kind.”

Carlon Jeffery, her brother who is also an actor, shared an image of his sister online and said she was “truly a light that shines bright.” He added, “You are the best sister a brother could ask for. Pray we continue to grow closer to one another along this journey. I got your back in this life and the next.”

Jeffery held a number of roles on children’s television shows on the Disney Channel and Nickelodeon, including “iCarly,” “Good Luck Charlie” and “Shake It Up,” according to her IMDb page. She also appeared on 10 episodes of “Curb Your Enthusiasm.”

Her breakout role was in “Zombies,” though, when she scored the role of Bree in the 2018 TV movie. She reprised the role in the second and third installments of the movie, and voiced the character in the animated version, “Zombies: The Re-Antimated Series.”