Erica Ash, known for her work in multiple entertainment roles, passed away on Sunday, July 28, 2024, at the age of 46. The actress, who was based in Los Angeles, California, lost her battle with cancer, according to a confirmation from her mother, Diann Ash. She described her daughter as an exceptional woman and a talented performer who touched many lives with her humor and vivacious spirit.
Ash’s contributions to the entertainment industry were highlighted by her versatility and talent. She kick-started her career in the early 2000s with appearances on sketch-comedy series such as “The Big Gay Sketch Show” in 2006 and “MADtv” in 2008. She was recognized for her impersonations of well-known personalities such as Michelle Obama and Condoleezza Rice.
In 2013, Ash gained significant recognition with her role as Kendra Brooks in “Scary Movie V.” This role opened doors for her to play notable parts in films like “Jean of the Joneses” (2016), “Uncle Drew” (2018), and “Violet” (2021). In the latter, she shared the screen with Olivia Munn and Justin Theroux.
Ash’s television career was also noteworthy. She was featured in several episodes of the Jennifer Lopez-led “Shades of Blue,” had a recurring role in the Starz series “Survivor’s Remorse” from 2014 to 2017, and held the lead role in the 2018 BET legal drama series “In Contempt.”
However, Ash was most recognized for her role as Bridgette Hart in the BET series “Real Husbands of Hollywood.” She appeared in four seasons of the show, a reality TV parody that allowed Ash to showcase her comedic skills alongside Kevin Hart. BET praised Ash for her wit and humor in a statement posted on their Instagram page.
According to IMDb, Ash’s last acting credit was earlier in 2024 in an episode of the NBC sitcom Extended Family. Despite her successful acting career, Ash initially planned to pursue medicine at Emory University. However, her path changed after a stint as a backup singer for a Japanese band in Japan, where she began her journey into acting.
“I live my life like I’m writing a book,” Ash said in a 2017 interview with the LA Times. “For me, it’s just about growing and moving forward.”
Beyond her on-screen work, Ash was known for her active participation on social media. Here, she often expressed her political views and humorously portrayed various characters. Her peers and fans held her in high esteem for her talent and dedication to her work.
Comedian Loni Love, on Monday, acknowledged Erica’s talent and humor on her “X” page. She emphasized that Erica always brought her best to her work and was consistently present. Love extended her heartfelt condolences to Erica’s family.
Erica Ash’s death has left a profound void in the entertainment industry, where she was loved for her ability to make audiences smile and laugh. Her family has requested donations be made to the Susan G. Komen Cancer Foundation or other breast cancer foundations in memory of her fight with the disease.
