Dee Freeman, ‘Sistas’ and ‘Young and the Restless’ Actress, Dies at 66
The entertainment community is mourning the loss of Dee Freeman, a versatile actress known for her powerful presence on screen, and stage. Freeman passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 2, 2026, at the age of 66, following a “brave and fearless” battle with stage four lung cancer. Her family shared the news via an official Instagram post, describing her as a “force of nature.”
A Diverse Acting Career
Dee Freeman built a career characterized by range and depth, transitioning from theater into prominent film and television roles. She is perhaps best recognized by fans of Tyler Perry’s Sistas, where she appeared in seasons nine and 10 as Valerie Barnes, the mother of Andi Barnes.
Beyond Sistas, Freeman made a mark on daytime television with appearances in three episodes of The Young and the Restless. Her television credits too include roles in NCIS: Los Angeles (2021) and Shameless (2016). Between 2010 and 2015, she led the satirical comedy Pretty the Series, further showcasing her comedic timing and leadership on screen.
From the Marine Corps to the Arts
Freeman’s journey to stardom was unconventional. Born in Louisiana in 1959, she didn’t start her professional life in the arts. Instead, after high school, she joined the United States Marine Corps. She served for six years, rising to the rank of sergeant, before deciding to pursue her dreams in acting. This discipline and strength often translated into the “quiet power” that colleagues noted she brought to every set.
Final Projects and Lasting Legacy
At the time of her passing, Freeman was continuing to create. She was in the process of developing a novel adaptation of her one-woman show, Poison Gun, a project deeply inspired by her own family history.
Tributes have poured in from those who worked alongside her. Actor Brian Jordan, Jr. Thanked her for the “gorgeous energy and the light” she brought to the set of Sistas, while her publicist, Desirae Lee Brockington, remembered her as a “true gem” who lit up every room she entered. Crystal Renee described Freeman as a “force” and a lovely collaborator who will be deeply missed.
Key Takeaways: The Life of Dee Freeman
- Passing: Died April 2, 2026, at age 66 due to stage four lung cancer.
- Notable Roles: Valerie Barnes in Sistas, roles in The Young and the Restless, and lead in Pretty the Series.
- Military Service: Served six years in the US Marine Corps, achieving the rank of sergeant.
- Creative Works: Developed the one-woman show Poison Gun, which she was adapting into a novel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Dee Freeman’s role in ‘Sistas’?
Dee Freeman portrayed Valerie Barnes, the mother of Andi Barnes, during the ninth and tenth seasons of the series.
What was the cause of Dee Freeman’s death?
According to her family, Freeman passed away after a battle with stage four lung cancer.
Did Dee Freeman have a military background?
Yes, Freeman served in the United States Marine Corps for six years and rose to the rank of sergeant before pursuing her acting career.