Kimberly Hérbert Gregory, a luminous force across stage and screen, passed away on October 3, 2025, at the age of 52. Her death was confirmed by her ex-husband, Chester Gregory, who honored her in a heartfelt tribute. No cause of death has been reported.

The outpouring of love under Gregory’s post is a mere glimpse into the hole Kimberly has left behind. 

Born December 7, 1972, in Houston, Texas, Kimberly built her foundation in theater before breaking through to television and film. She studied at Mount Holyoke College and later at the University of Chicago, and early in her career, she made an undeniable mark on Chicago’s theater scene. Her stage work earned recognition, including a Joseph Jefferson Award nomination.

Kimberly’s first appearance on screen was in 2007, with small roles in “I Think I Love My Wife” and “Gossip Girl.” Over the years, she delivered powerful performances in “Devious Maids,” “Red Hook Summer,” “Genius: Aretha,” and “The Chi,” among many more. She also lent her voice to the role of Nicole Williams in “Craig Of The Creek.”

Her most widely recognized role came in HBO’s “Vice Principals,” where she played Dr. Belinda Brown, a character whose fierce intelligence and commanding presence resonated onscreen, with her cast and with audiences. Her costars and colleagues celebrated her brilliance: 

Walter Goggins: "We lost one of the best yesterday. One of the best I’ve ever worked with, Kimberly Hebert Gregory. I had the honor... the good fortune of getting to know, getting to spend months working with this Queen on Vice Principals. She made me laugh like no other. A professionals professional. A gatdamn SOPRANO that never missed a note. You will be missed my friend. As much as you know."

Busy Phillips: "Oh my god I’m devastated to hear this. She was a light and a force. She will be missed."

Gregory’s post said it all: You Were Brilliance Embodied, A Black Woman Whose Mind Lit Every Room, Whose Presence Carried Both Fire And Grace … Your Story Was Never Defined By The Battle But By The Beauty You Carried Through It.”

Kimberly is survived by her ex-husband and their son, as well as a community of artists, collaborators, fans, friends, and family who will never let her legacy die. Her spirit, artistry, and steadfast commitment to elevating Black voices and stories will always be remembered. The loss of Kimberly Hébert Gregory is deeply felt, but her light and legacy will continue to shine on screens, stages, and in the hearts of everyone she touched.