Esta TerBlanche, the South African actress known for her role as Gillian Andrassy in the ABC daytime drama "All My Children," has died at the age of 51. Her cause of death is currently under investigation.
"All My Children" actress Esta TerBlanche has passed away at the age of 51, her representative confirmed to Fox News Digital. The South African-born actress was known for her portrayal of Gillian Andrassy on the popular ABC daytime drama.
TerBlanche's cause of death has not been determined. The Department of Medical Examiner's Office confirmed that an investigation is underway, with "other significant conditions" listed as contributing factors. The actress died on Friday, July 19, at her home in North Hollywood, her rep, Annie Spoliansky, revealed.
All My Children" Actress Esta TerBlanche Dies Mysteriously at 51
"Esta was such a kind, loving, giving, and caring person," Spolianksy said in a statement. "She cared so deeply for all people and animals. She had squirrels she fed and looked after daily, her two cats and recent kittens that she cared for as her own children."
Spoliansky added, "Esta was never anything but generous and lovely to me, and I’m grateful to have known her for the time that I did, and devastated to learn of her passing."
All My Children" Actress Esta TerBlanche Dies Mysteriously at 51
Representatives with the Los Angeles Fire Department did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital's request for comment.
TerBlanche found fame as one of the stars of the popular ABC daytime drama, "All My Children." She began appearing on the show in 1997 and starred in more than 100 episodes as Gillian Andrassy. Her character was killed off the show in 2001, but she reprised her role in 2011 as a ghost.
All My Children" Actress Esta TerBlanche Dies Mysteriously at 51
"When I came back, it was really emotional for me and Cameron [Mathison]," TerBlanche told Soap Opera Digest in an interview published days before her death.
"Back then, we hadn’t seen each other for years, so it was such a touching moment for us."
TerBlanche starred in more than 100 episodes of the popular daytime drama. Her career in the entertainment industry began back home in South Africa, where she hosted the children's program K-T.V. from 1990-95. TerBlanche also earned the Miss Teen South Africa crown in 1991.
She told the outlet that while she had moved back to South Africa, she was ready to resume her Hollywood career. "It's definitely something I would like to get back into," she said.
TerBlanche's sudden passing has left her family, friends, and fans in shock and mourning. Her cause of death remains a mystery, and the investigation is ongoing.
