Additional Coverage:
- Hollywood Stars Mourn Terrible Loss: ‘What a Light’ (parade.com)
Acclaimed Actress Kimberly Hébert Gregory Dies at 52
Hollywood is mourning the loss of actress Kimberly Hébert Gregory, who passed away on October 3 at the age of 52. Gregory was widely recognized for her captivating portrayal of Dr. Belinda Brown on the HBO series Vice Principals, a role that showcased her formidable talent for both fierce drama and comedic timing.
Her death was confirmed by her ex-husband, actor and singer Chester Gregory, in a poignant social media post. “You were brilliance embodied,” Chester wrote in a heartfelt tribute that quickly garnered thousands of reactions.
He remembered her as “a Black woman whose mind lit every room, whose presence carried both fire and grace.” Emphasizing their enduring friendship beyond their marriage, he concluded with a quiet benediction: “Kim… you did good.”
Stars Pay Tribute: ‘She Was a Light and a Force’
News of Gregory’s passing prompted an outpouring of tributes from across the entertainment industry. Actress Yvette Nicole Brown expressed her sorrow, stating, “I don’t understand this.
I’m so sorry for you and your son’s loss… And our loss as a community.”
Broadway star Leslie Odom Jr. added, “Beautiful tribute, bro. What a light she shared.
I am so sorry to hear.”
Actress Anika Noni Rose shared, “This is beyond words. I’m so very sorry,” while comedian Kym Whitley lamented, “Noooo I have no words.
She was fighting such a good fight. Such a light to the world.”
Actor Jason Ritter, who co-starred with Gregory on Kevin (Probably) Saves the World, fondly recalled her warmth and intelligence: “She was so brilliant and so kind… she will be so so missed by all of us lucky enough to know her.” Grammy winner Ledisi praised Gregory as “an extraordinary human… my favorite actress.”
Actress Angela Lewis penned an extensive tribute, saying, “I will love her forever. I can’t tell you how much she meant to my artistry and therefore to my life.
She was absolutely brilliance personified. We met and I was forever changed.
I am honored to call her friend. She is already missed.
Deeply.”
Vice Principals Co-Star Walton Goggins Remembers Her Brilliance
Walton Goggins, Gregory’s co-star on Vice Principals, shared his own remembrance, highlighting her comedic genius and professionalism. Goggins wrote, “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.
She made me laugh like no other. A professional’s professional.
A gatdamn SOPRANO that never missed a note. You will be missed, my friend.”
Actress Busy Philipps, who also appeared in the series, commented on Goggins’ post, stating, “Oh my god, I’m devastated to hear this. She was a light and a force. She will be missed.”
Born in Houston in 1972, Gregory built an extensive career spanning theater, television, and film. Her diverse screen credits included roles in The Chi, Kevin (Probably) Saves the World, Better Call Saul, Barry, Five Feet Apart, The Act, Devious Maids, and Brooklyn Nine-Nine. She also lent her distinctive voice to animated series such as Craig of the Creek and Jessica’s Big Little World.
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- Hollywood Stars Mourn Terrible Loss: ‘What a Light’ (parade.com)