Beloved 'Sistas' Actress Dee Freeman Passes Away at 66

The entertainment industry mourns the loss of the respected actress, writer, and Marine veteran.

Apr. 4, 2026 at 12:37pm

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Dolores 'Dee' Freeman, a beloved actress known for her roles in the BET series 'Sistas' and other productions, passed away on April 2, 2026 at the age of 66 after a courageous battle with cancer. Freeman had an extensive career in theater, television, and film, and was remembered for her emotional depth, authenticity, and resilience both on and off screen.

Why it matters

Dee Freeman's passing is a significant loss for the entertainment industry, as she was a respected and acclaimed actress who brought a rare honesty and power to every role she portrayed. Her career spanned decades and mediums, and she was especially known for her work on the hit BET series 'Sistas', where she had been invited to return for an 11th season before her passing.

The details

Born in Louisiana in 1959, Freeman first answered her calling in the arts after serving in the United States Marine Corps. She built an extensive career in theater, performing in over 80 stage productions, before making the move to Los Angeles where she spent over two decades working in television and film. Most recently, she captured audiences as Valerie Barnes, Andi's mother, in Seasons 9 and 10 of 'Sistas' on BET. Freeman was also proud of her work in the multi-award-winning web series 'Pretty', reflecting her commitment to meaningful and independent storytelling. At the time of her passing, she was developing a novel adaptation of her one-woman show 'Poison Gun', inspired by her family's history.

  • Dee Freeman passed away on April 2, 2026.
  • Freeman was born on June 6, 1959.

The players

Dee Freeman

A beloved actress known for her roles in the BET series 'Sistas' and other productions, who passed away at the age of 66 after a courageous battle with cancer.

Amber and Shane

Dee Freeman's two children, who were her greatest pride.

Desirae L. Benson

Freeman's publicist, who stated that she was not just a client, but someone she truly respected and admired.

Tyler Perry

The creator of the hit series 'Sistas', in which Freeman had a recurring role.

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What they’re saying

“Dee wasn't just my client—she was someone I truly respected and admired. She carried herself with a level of grace, strength, and authenticity that is rare. Even in the face of stage 4 lung cancer, she showed up with courage and dignity. Dee had a quiet power that commanded respect without ever needing to demand it. Her legacy is not just in her work, but in how she made people feel—and that will stay with us forever.”

— Desirae L. Benson, Freeman's publicist

What’s next

The entertainment industry and Freeman's loved ones will continue to honor her legacy through her body of work, storytelling, and the impact she had on those around her.

The takeaway

Dee Freeman's passing is a profound loss for the entertainment industry, as she was a respected and acclaimed actress known for her emotional depth, authenticity, and resilience. Her career spanned decades and mediums, and she will be remembered not only for her immense talent, but for the warmth, integrity, and light she brought to every role and every room.