Dee Freeman, a television and film performer recognized for appearing on BET’s “Sistas” and her contributions to “The Young and the Restless,” passed away Thursday at 66 years old due to complications from Stage IV lung cancer.
The family of Freeman announced her death via Instagram, 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 most recent work included appearances in the ninth and tenth seasons of Tyler Perry’s “Sistas,” playing Valerie Barnes, the mother of Andi Barnes, a character played by KJ Smith Black. Prior to her passing, she had received an invitation to participate in the program’s 11th season. Her last appearance on screen occurred in January.
Desirae L. Benson, Freeman’s publicist, paid tribute to her client with a statement reflecting the performer’s lasting character: “Dee had a quiet power that commanded respect without ever needing to demand it.”
A Louisiana native born on June 6, 1959, Freeman followed a non-traditional route to acting. Following her graduation from high school, she enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, allegedly because of a dare, and completed six years of military duty. This experience cultivated her discipline and fortitude—characteristics that would come to characterize her personal and professional endeavors.
After completing her military service, Freeman began her artistic career, initially working in theater before moving into television and film. Throughout a 30-year career, she participated in over 80 theatrical productions.
Her television career began in 1995 with an appearance on an ABC episode of “Coach.” She subsequently worked in Los Angeles for over 20 years, accumulating an extensive list of guest roles on well-known programs such as “Seinfeld,” “ER,” “The X-Files,” “Dexter,” “Shameless,” and “NCIS: Los Angeles.”
Her work included three episodes on the CBS series “The Young and the Restless” during 1997 and 2009. Freeman additionally headlined the satirical comedy program “Pretty the Series” between 2010 and 2015, portraying Ribina Champagne and gaining acclaim within independent television circles.
In addition to her television and film career, Freeman maintained her dedication to theater and narrative arts. When she died, she was developing a novel adaptation of her one-woman show “Poison Gun,” which took inspiration from her family’s past. This endeavor demonstrated her commitment to autobiographical storytelling and independent artistic pursuits.
Family and friends remembered her fortitude and elegance, particularly during her last days. Shane, her son, 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 significant achievement and source of pride. She leaves behind her mother, brothers, and sisters as well.
The death of Freeman represents the loss of a multi-talented artist who excelled across television, film, and stage with equal capability. From her initial years as a Marine through her last performance on “Sistas,” she tackled each phase of her existence with resolve and genuineness.
Fellow performers and admirers recall an actress who infused depth and complexity into each part, whether through a recurring storyline on a Tyler Perry production or a brief appearance on a network show. Freeman’s capacity to resonate with viewers stemmed from authenticity, influenced by her distinctive life journey and steadfast devotion to her craft.
A gifted performer whose professional influence reached well beyond her on-screen presence has been lost by the entertainment world. Freeman’s impact endures through her artistic contributions, her children, and the numerous individuals she influenced with her elegance, fortitude, and quiet power.
