Country Ever After star passes away at 45 after long cancer battle
A Netflix star has died at only 45 and had told fans prior to her death not to "stay in the darkness of this moment." Criscilla Anderson was diagnosed with colon cancer seven years ago.
The Country Ever After star’s death was confirmed via Instagram, in a post that included her final message to fans. She said: "If you’re reading this, I’ve finally slipped into the arms of Jesus — peacefully and surrounded by love. Please don’t stay in the darkness of this moment. I fought hard and I loved deeply. I am not gone… I’m Home."
Criscilla was married to country musician Coffey Anderson. The two had three children together and were married from 2009 until Coffey filed for divorce in 2022.
Together, they appeared on a reality TV program, Country Ever After, which aired on Netflix, but Criscilla was originally a hip-hop dancer. Her final goodbye was posted to Instagram by her photographer, Lindsey, on Tuesday.
She continued: "My babies… I am watching over you. When a moment feels warm, familiar, or too beautiful to be a coincidence — that’s me. I’m still mothering you. I’m still yours. Be gentle with each other. Hold my children close. And remember: heaven isn’t as far away as it feels.”
On their show, which came out in 2020, the Anderson family explored how Criscilla was being treated for stage three colon cancer while continuing to raise her children, including a stepdaughter, and work as a dancer.
The star had previously danced with Rihanna, Snoop Dogg, and Britney Spears, and also appeared in the Netflix series America’s Sweethearts, as a choreographer for the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders.
Coffey paid tribute to his ex-wife in a social media post. He shared: "Heaven gained a star today. We miss you already. Our hearts are shattered.
"Our minds are jumbled. Our lives will never be the same. The house is quieter because you’re missing. The babies are resilient and strong as ever. We did good with them. So, dance your heart out on the beach in heaven.”
Several other well-known names have written messages about Criscilla, including Oscar-winner Viola Davis. She commented on Coffey’s post: "Beautiful, fitting tribute. My heart and prayers are with you.”
American Idol star Danny Gokey said the news was "devastating," while comedian Anjelah Johnson said it was "so heartbreaking." Reality star Todd Chrisley added: “Heartbroken is an understatement, rest well my beautiful friend, you will be loved and thought of always.”
The Macmillan Support Line offers confidential support to people living with cancer and their loved ones. If you need to talk, call us on 0808 808 0000.
Technology & Business Editor
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