Gregory also appeared in the hit show ‘Better Call Saul’ and Spike Lee’s ‘Red Hook Summer’ film.
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Actress Kimberly Hébert Gregory, best known for her commanding role as Dr. Belinda Brown in HBO’s dark comedy Vice Principals, has passed away at the age of 52. According to reports, Gregory died on Friday (Oct. 3). No cause of death has been disclosed at this time.
The Houston-born actress, who began her on-screen career with a role in the 2007 Chris Rock film I Think I Love My Wife, carved out a notable path in television and film over the last two decades.
Her screen presence was unforgettable—equal parts fire and finesse—gracing everything from Gossip Girl and The Black Donnellys to Brooklyn Nine-Nine, Better Call Saul, and Law & Order.
Actor Kimberly Hebert Gregory attends HBO’s Official Golden Globe Awards After Party at Circa 55 Restaurant on January 7, 2018 in Los Angeles, California.
Emma McIntyre/Getty Images)
In addition to her television work, she appeared in Spike Lee’s Red Hook Summer, as well as the films Five Feet Apart, Arizona, and Miss Virginia.
On Saturday (Oct. 4), Gregory’s ex-husband and fellow actor Chester Gregory confirmed her passing with a deeply moving tribute on Instagram:
“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 wrote.
He continued with heartfelt words about their bond beyond marriage. “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.”
“Thank You, Kimberly, For Every Chapter We Shared. Your Story Was Never Defined By The Battle, But By The Beauty You Carried Through It.”
Gregory’s Vice Principals co-star Walton Goggins also paid the late actress tribute. “We lost one of the best yesterday… one of the best I’ve ever worked with… a gatdamn SOPRANO that never missed a note. You will be missed my friend. As much as you know,” he wrote.
Kimberly Hébert Gregory’s legacy is one of talent, resilience, and a radiant spirit that lit up screens and hearts alike. VIBE sends our condolences to the Hébert Gregory family.
Kimberly Hebert Gregory attends 12th Annual Women in Film Oscar Nominees Party Presented by Max Mara with additional support from Chloe Wine Collection, Stella Artois and Cadillac at Spring Place on February 22, 2019 in Los Angeles, California.
Presley Ann/Getty Images for Women In Film
