Yvette Wilson, the stand-up comedian and actress best known for her co-starring roles in American TV shows Moesha and The Parkers, has died Thursday of cervical cancer. She was 48.
“It is with a heavy heart that I can verify that Yvette passed away last evening after a lengthy and hard battle,” wrote Wilson’s friend Jeffrey Pittle on the fundraising website dubbed “CANCER SUCKS” he organized to help pay for the actress’ medical expenses. “She was a fighter to the end, and her talent, humor and amazing friendship will be sorely missed. She will live on through her awesome body of work. I would ask that you continue to donate on this page to support her family in this trying and sad time. Thank you SO much for your support and love for Yvette — she knew it, read your comments and it lifted her up. Again, thank you.”
Wilson got her big break in 1993, co-starring in the Thea Vidale-led sitcom Thea. She would go on to hold prominent roles in in the Brandy vehicle Moesha and its spinoff The Parkers, starring Mo’Nique. Wilson also featured in many comedy films including House Party 3, Poetic Justice, Friday and Don’t Be A Menace to South Central While Drinking Your Juice in the Hood, among others. She also had a featured performance on Russell Simmons‘ Def Comedy Jam.
Wilson’s battle with cervical cancer led to kidney failure, and she was in need of a kidney transplant at the time of her death.
When news of her death broke, several of Wilson’s celebrity friends and former co-stars expressed their condolences via Twitter. Read some of them below.
So saddened by the loss of Yvette Wilson. She was such a beautiful spirit. May she rest in peace.
— Brandy Norwood (@4everBrandy) June 15, 2012
R.I.P Yvette Wilson a.k.a Andell from(The Parkers). Dies at 48 after losing a battle with Cancer. LIFE is Too Short! May she rest.
— Mike Ezeeps (@MikeEppps) June 15, 2012
RIP Yvette Wilson. Actress/ Comedian (Moesha).A real sweetheart! God Bless her loved ones.
— CedEntertainer (@CedEntertainer) June 15, 2012
R.I.P. Yvette Wilson. You’ve fought a great fight and left a lasting impression.
— Sommore the Comedian (@sommoresofunny) June 15, 2012
R.I.P Yvette Wilson (Andell From The Parkers). She recently lost her battle with cancer. Life is short, so cherish yours.
— Ms Lauryn Hill (@LaurynHiII) June 15, 2012
God bless u Yvette wilson. Tears in my eyes. Keep God laughing
— Jamie Foxx (@iamjamiefoxx) June 15, 2012
