What Happened to Kimberly Hébert Gregory, ‘The Chi’ Actress Dead at 52
The cause of death of Hébert, who also appeared in Grey’s Anatomy and The Big Bang Theory, remains one of the questions following the tragic news
Acclaimed actress Kimberly Hébert Gregory, known for her standout roles in The Chi, Vice Principals, and Grey’s Anatomy, has died at the age of 52. Her former husband, actor and musician Chester Gregory, confirmed her passing on Friday, October 3, through social media. While no official cause of death has been publicly disclosed, his tribute suggested that the actress had been battling an illness in the period leading up to her death.
In a heartfelt message posted on Instagram, Chester Gregory described Hébert Gregory as “the embodiment of brilliance, a Black woman whose mind illuminated every room, whose presence carried both fire and grace.” He continued, “You taught us lessons in courage, artistry, and resilience—and in how to keep showing up even when life demanded more than its share. Through our son, the song we wrote together, your light will never fade. Rest in power and peace, Kim. You did well.”
The statement quickly drew responses from fellow actors, musicians, and fans, who expressed grief and admiration for the Houston-born performer whose influence spanned television, film, and theater.
Kimberly Hébert Gregory, ‘Vice Principals’ actress, dead at 52 https://t.co/hnOkq5qhQt pic.twitter.com/tzFJECH77W
— New York Post (@nypost) October 5, 2025
Career Highlights: From Vice Principals to The Chi
Born December 7, 1972, in Houston, Texas, Kimberly Hébert Gregory was the youngest of three siblings. She earned a degree in Psychology from Mount Holyoke College and later completed a master’s degree in Social Work at the University of Chicago. Her academic grounding in human behavior and emotional complexity became a defining feature of her acting style.
She later trained at DePaul University’s Theatre School and began performing in the Chicago theater circuit, earning early recognition for her stage work before transitioning to screen roles in the mid-2000s.
Kimberly Hébert Gregory, best known for her scene stealing roles in «Vice Principals», «The Chi» and «Five Feet Apart», has died.
Read more: https://t.co/rPPtGWKLGV pic.twitter.com/7kMUNv1DY0
— TMZ (@TMZ) October 6, 2025
Hébert Gregory gained national attention with her performance as Dr. Belinda Brown in HBO’s Vice Principals (2016–2017), a role praised for its intelligence, humor, and commanding presence. She went on to appear in numerous acclaimed television productions, including The Chi, Grey’s Anatomy, Shameless, The Big Bang Theory, Better Call Saul, and Brooklyn Nine-Nine. Her voice work in the animated series Craig of the Creek further demonstrated her range and versatility.
Industry Tributes and Reactions
Following the announcement of her death, tributes poured in from across the entertainment industry.
Actor Walton Goggins, her co-star in Vice Principals, wrote, “Yesterday we lost one of the finest talents I have ever worked with. I was honored and fortunate to spend months working beside her.”
Other public figures also shared their condolences. Leslie Odom Jr. called Gregory’s tribute “beautiful,” adding that she “shared such light with the world.” Kym Whitley remembered her as “a fighter and a light to the world,” while Ledisi described her as “an extraordinary human being” and “my favorite actress.” Actor Jason Ritter wrote that she was “so brilliant and kind,” and that “everyone will miss her deeply.”
Kimberly Hébert Gregory’s Cause of Death
As of October 2025, the cause of death of Kimberly Hébert Gregory has not been officially confirmed. Her family and representatives have not released further details, requesting privacy during this period of mourning. However, Chester Gregory’s message has led many fans to believe that her death may have been related to a private illness.
Legacy and Impact
Throughout her career, Kimberly Hébert Gregory was recognized for her emotional intelligence, professionalism, and capacity to bring humanity to every role. Her performances in Vice Principals and The Chi captured both her range and her commitment to complex, multidimensional characters.
Her former husband’s tribute encapsulated what many who knew her have echoed: “Your story was never defined by the struggle, but by the beauty with which you lived through it.”
Kimberly Hébert Gregory leaves behind a lasting legacy as a performer of rare depth and authenticity. Her loss is felt deeply across the film, television, and theater communities.
She is survived by her son and extended family.