Rising American actress Isabelle Tate, best known for her appearance in the pilot episode of 9-1-1: Nashville, has died at the age of 23, her agency confirmed on Thursday.
“We are deeply saddened and completely heartbroken to share that Isabelle Tate passed away on October 19th. She was 23,” the McCray Agency said in a statement.
Isabelle Tate’s Breakthrough Role in ‘9-1-1: Nashville’
Tate appeared in the newly launched 9-1-1 spin-off as Julie, an attendee at a bachelor party where an accident takes place. The episode, filmed in June, premiered earlier this month on October 9.
“I’ve known Izzy since she was a teenager and she recently returned to acting. She booked the first series she auditioned for, 9-1-1: Nashville. She had a wonderful time,” the agency shared. “I was so lucky to know her and she will be greatly missed by so many.”
A Promising Young Talent from Tennessee
Born and raised in Tennessee, Isabelle Tate graduated from Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) in May with a degree in business. Her cause of death has not yet been determined.
According to her obituary, Tate was “full of fire, a fighter,” and deeply passionate about helping animals.
“Her idea of a fun outing was visiting an animal shelter and doling out lots of love,” the obituary noted.
A Creative Soul and Advocate for Others
The obituary also highlighted Tate’s love for music and her warm, outgoing personality.
“She was also quite musically inclined, often spending hours writing and recording songs with friends and even publishing a few,” it continued. “What she loved the most though was spending time with family and friends, always the life of the party. Her sister was her best friend and her mom was her shining beacon of light.”
Her Health Journey and Strength
In a 2022 Instagram post, Isabelle Tate revealed she had been diagnosed with a progressive neuromuscular disease at age 13. Despite her health challenges, she remained optimistic and open about her experience.
“Recently, it really progressed and I’ve come to terms that if I want to live my life to the fullest I need to use a wheelchair at times,” she wrote. “This has been a difficult journey for me because having to accept help and surrender to the progression of this condition has been hard.”
Tributes Pour In for Isabelle Tate
Following her passing, friends, colleagues, and fans have shared heartfelt tributes online.
TV makeup artist Jennifer Garner, who worked on 9-1-1: Nashville, posted: “What a beautiful spirit. I did her makeup for episode 1 of 9-1-1: Nashville. She will be missed.”
Tate’s sister also responded to the agency’s statement with an emotional message: “Thank you for your beautiful words. She was doing exactly what she would’ve wanted to be doing. I’m forever grateful. She was truly the brightest light in its purest form.”