Kimberly Hebert Gregory, known to millions for her roles in Two and a Half Men, Big Bang Theory and Grey’s Anatomy, has died at the age of 52
Kimberly Hebert Gregory arrives at the Premiere of Lionsgate’s “Five Feet Apart” at Fox Bruin Theatre on March 07, 2019 in Los Angeles, California(Image: Steve Granitz/WireImage)
Tributes have been paid to Big Bang Theory actress Kimberly Hébert Gregory, who has sadly passed away aged 52. Her former husband Chester Gregory confirmed the tragic news on Sunday.
The acclaimed performer was beloved by audiences worldwide for her portrayal of Ms. Davora in The Big Bang Theory, Deborah Curzon in Grey’s Anatomy, and Kyra Hay in Better Call Saul.
Her other television credits also included appearances in hit shows such as Brooklyn Nine Nine, Two and a Half Men, Dollface and Gossip Girl.
In an emotional tribute shared on social media, Chester – who has a son with Kimberly – wrote: “Kimberly Hébert Gregory, You Were Brilliance Embodied. A Black Woman Whose Mind Lit Every Room, Whose Presence Carried Both Fire And Grace. You Taught Us Lessons In Courage, In Artistry, In Resilience, And In How To Keep Showing Up, Even When Life Demanded More Than Its Share.”
He continued: “So Much More Than Ex-Wife, You Were My Friend. Our Son, The Song We Wrote Together, Is The Living Echo Of Your Light. Through Him, Your Brilliance Will Never Fade. Through Him, Your Laughter Will Always Resound.”
Kimberly Hebert Gregory passed away on Friday aged 52, her ex-husband Chester Gregory confirmed(Image: Lexie Moreland/WWD/Penske Media via Getty Images)
The heartbroken father concluded: “Thank You, Kimberly, For Every Chapter We Shared. Your Story Was Never Defined By The Battle, But By The Beauty You Carried Through It.”
Kimberly’s passing sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry, with numerous celebrities posting heartfelt tributes and fond memories online, reports the Mirror.
The White Lotus actor Walton Goggins was amongst those expressing their sorrow – having previously collaborated with her on the HBO comedy series Vice Principals.
The actor posted on Instagram: “We lost one of the best yesterday… one of the best I’ve ever worked with. Kimberly Hebert Gregory. I had the honor… the good fortune of getting to know, getting to spend months working with this Queen on Vice Principals.”
He added: “She made me laugh like no other. A professionals professional. A gatdamn SOPRANO that never missed a note. You will be missed my friend. As much as you know.”
Kimberly Hébert Gregory was best known for her role as Dr. Belinda Brown on the HBO series Vice Principals, co-starring Danny McBride and Walton Goggins
Niecy Nash called Kimberly “the sweetest soul” in her own tribute, whilst Community star Yvette Nicole Brown, responding to Chester’s message, posted: “I don’t understand this. I’m so sorry for you and your son’s loss @chestergregory. And OUR loss as a community.”
Kimberley was born on 7 December 1972 in Houston, Texas, and launched her acting journey in her home city – completing her studies at The High School for the Performing and Visual Arts. She later attended Mount Holyoke College, The Theatre School at DePaul University and the School of Social Service Administration at the University of Chicago.
Her debut television appearance saw her portray Head Nurse in an episode of the drama The Black Donnellys in 2007 – with that same year marking her cinema debut in the romantic comedy I Think I Love My Wife featuring Chris Rock, Kerry Washington and Gina Torres.
Across a career stretching nearly twenty years, Kimberly’s most memorable performance was arguably as school headmistress Dr. Belinda Brown alongside Walton and Danny McBride in Vice Principals.
Speaking about the project in 2016, the actress stated: “We have to be open … I want to be in a space where I can fight with two white boys. I want us in the industry … to get past and be open and really reach for that idea of equality.”
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