Actress Denise Dowse, known best for her roles in Beverly Hills, 90210, and The Guardian, has died aged 64.
Now, Denise Dowse is an actress and director, best known for her roles as Mrs. Yvonne Teasley in the hit series Beverly Hills, 90210.
As well as playing Judge Rebecca Damsen in the drama series The Guardian, and Dr. Rhonda Pine in the comedy-drama series Insecure.
She began her acting career in 1989, appearing in an episode of Almost There, as the character Angela Quartermane.
From then on she has worked on dozens of TV series, such as Full House, Seinfeld, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, ER, Charmed, The Mentalist, and House, just to name a few.
But her talent also crosses over into film.
One of her first appearances on the big screen was in 1997, when she appeared as Sky Marshal Meru in the sci-fi movie Starship Troopers, featuring the likes of Casper Van Dien, Denise Richards, and Neil Patrick Harris.
She has gone on to star in hit movies Pleasantville, Dr. Dolittle 2, Requiem for a Dream, Eulogy, and Reign Over Me.
And even starred alongside Bernie Mac and Ashton Kutcher in the 2005 comedy Guess Who.
Some of her later works include her role as Valeria in the thriller Fatale, in 2020.
And she was even set to direct the upcoming drama Remember Me: The Mahalia Jackson Story.
Sadly, Dowse won’t get the chance as her family has recently announced she has passed away.
Fans are obviously shocked by the news.
And many have taken to social media to share their tributes to the star…
One fan wrote on Instagram: “I’m so sorry to hear this. Denise was one of my favorite people. One of the most giving, loving, and gentle people I’ve met. I’m sending prayers and peace to her family and those who loved her.”
Another commented: “Praying for love and warmth to surround you and your family.”
“Denise was a beautiful soul and my life was made better knowing her. I’m sad that she is gone but happy that I got to know her. Rest in Power,” a third added.
“Denise was an incredible Director, visionary, and artist but most of all she was an incredible friend. I will miss her dearly. The world has lost an incredible light. Heaven has gained a beautiful Angel,” another person wrote.
Hundreds of others from all over the world have also shared their thoughts and prayers for her family.
The tragic news comes after she recently contracted meningitis.
And fell into a coma shortly after.
Denise’s sister, Tracey, gave an update on her condition last week, confirming to ET: “Yes, she is still in a coma. We are hopeful that she will come out of this soon.”
In a post on Denise’s Instagram page, Tracey asked for “support and prayers” for her sister.
Tracey wrote, “As many of you have seen, my posts have been positive and uplifting.
“I am trying to keep my spirits up and support those who need it. As many of you know I am a private person. So this is hard for me.”
She continued: “I am requesting support and prayers be offered me and my sister, and my only immediate family @denisedowse.
“She is currently in the hospital in a coma brought on by a virulent form of meningitis. Her doctors do not know when she will come out of the coma as it was not medically induced.”
Tracey concluded: “She is a vibrant actor and director that should have many years ahead of her. Thoughts, prayers, and support are greatly appreciated.”
Sadly, Dowse has since succumbed to her illness and her family announced her death on Instagram.
In a heartbreaking update, her sister Tracy wrote: “It is with a very heavy heart that I inform everyone that my sister, Denise Dowse has gone forward to meet our family in eternal life.”
She continued: “Denise Yvonne Dowse was the most amazing sister, a consummate, illustrious actress, mentor, and director. She was my very best friend and final family member.”
She also went on to thank all those who have offered their prayers for her sister.
“I am so grateful for all the calls, text messages, direct messages, and silent prayers for my sister. We could not have made it so gracefully and painlessly without all of the prayer warriors around the world.”
“Thank you for giving so selflessly,” she concluded.
Our thoughts go out to her family and friends during this difficult time.
Rest in peace, Denise.