‘The Young and the Restless’ Was 66

Dee Freeman, a veteran performer known for her roles on “Sistas” and “The Young and the Restless,” has died. She was 66.

Freeman died April 2 following a battle with cancer, her family announced in a statement shared on social media. “She passed away peacefully after a brave and fearless fight,” the family said, adding that she was deeply moved by the outpouring of support she received during her illness.

Born in Louisiana in 1959, Freeman took an unconventional path to acting. After high school, she enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, an experience that informed the discipline and resilience she later brought to her work. Following her military service, she began her career in the arts through theater before moving into television and film.

Freeman was most recently recognized for her role as Valerie Barnes on “Sistas,” where she appeared in later seasons as the mother of Andi Barnes, played by KJ Smith. Her television credits also included appearances on “The Young and the Restless,” “Shameless” and “NCIS: Los Angeles.” She also starred in the satirical comedy series “Pretty” from 2010 to 2015.

At the time of her death, Freeman was developing a novel adaptation of her one-woman stage production “Poison Gun,” inspired by her family’s history.

“Dee wasn’t just my client — she was someone I truly respected and admired,” her publicist, Desirae L. Benson, said in a statement. “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.”

Freeman is survived by her children, Amber and Shane, as well as her mother and siblings.