Dee Freeman, an actress in television and film recognized for her part in BET’s “Sistas” and her appearances on “The Young and the Restless,” passed away on Thursday at 66 years old due to complications from Stage IV lung cancer.
On Instagram, Freeman’s family announced her death, revealing she died peacefully on April 2, 2026. The family’s statement characterized her fight against cancer as “brave and fearless” and expressed gratitude to those who supported her throughout her sickness. They mentioned she was “blown away” by the tremendous show of support.
Her latest role was in the ninth and tenth seasons of Tyler Perry’s “Sistas,” where she played Valerie Barnes, the mother of Andi Barnes, a character portrayed by KJ Smith Black. Before her passing, she had received an invitation to appear in the program’s 11th season. Her last screen performance occurred in January.
Desirae L. Benson, Freeman’s publicist, paid tribute to her client’s legacy with words that reflected the performer’s lasting influence: “Dee had a quiet power that commanded respect without ever needing to demand it.”
Freeman was born on June 6, 1959, in Louisiana and followed a non-traditional route to acting. Upon graduating high school, she enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, allegedly on a dare, and completed six years of military duty. This period instilled discipline and strength of character—traits that became hallmarks of her personal and professional endeavors.
After her time in the military, Freeman embarked on an artistic career, beginning with theatrical performances before moving into television and film. Throughout a 30-year career, she participated in over 80 stage productions.
Her first television role came in 1995 on ABC’s “Coach.” Over the next twenty-plus years in Los Angeles, she assembled a substantial portfolio of guest roles on well-known programs such as “Seinfeld,” “ER,” “The X-Files,” “Dexter,” “Shameless,” and “NCIS: Los Angeles.”
In 1997 and 2009, she had roles in three episodes of “The Young and the Restless” on CBS. From 2010 through 2015, Freeman starred as Ribina Champagne in the satirical series “Pretty the Series,” gaining acclaim in independent television circles.
In addition to her on-screen performances, Freeman maintained her passion for theater and narrative arts. When she died, she was developing a novel adaptation of her one-woman show “Poison Gun,” which was based on her family’s background. This endeavor demonstrated her commitment to personal storytelling and independent artistic pursuits.
Freeman’s loved ones cherished her fortitude and elegance, particularly during her final moments. Her son Shane recounted that when questioned about her condition toward the end, she responded, “Can’t complain. On the other side doesn’t do you any good.”
A dedicated mother, Freeman regarded her two children, Amber and Shane, as her most cherished achievements. She leaves behind her mother, brothers, and sisters as well.
The death of Freeman represents the loss of an adaptable artist who excelled across television, film, and stage. From her initial years as a Marine through her last performance on “Sistas,” she tackled each phase of life with resolve and genuineness.
Colleagues and admirers recall a performer who contributed complexity and subtlety to all her parts, from extended story arcs on Tyler Perry productions to brief network drama appearances. Her capacity to resonate with viewers stemmed from an authentic core, informed by her distinctive personal journey and steadfast artistic dedication.
A gifted performer whose influence reached well beyond her time on screen has been lost by the entertainment world. Freeman’s legacy endures through her artistic contributions, her children, and the many lives she influenced with her elegance, fortitude, and quiet power.