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Remembering 'Degrassi' Star Jahmil French

The Canadian actor has died at the age of 29
Remembering 'Degrassi' Star Jahmil French
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – DECEMBER 18: Jahmil French visits Build to discuss the series “Soundtrack” at Build Studio on December 18, 2019 in New York City. (Photo by Michael Loccisano/Getty Images)
By Kemberlie Spivey · Updated March 3, 2021
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready…

Jahmil French, the Canadian actor and writer who played Dave Turner on Degrassi’s The Next Generation, has passed away at the age of 29. 

The news was announced by TV writer and executive producer Joshua Safran who wrote on Twitter:

“I can confirm my good friend, co-worker, and all around inspiration, Jahmil French, passed away yesterday,” Safran wrote. “Only posting because I see the story getting out there. I will have more to say about him later. Right now we’re all just processing this devastating news.”

I can confirm my good friend, co-worker, and all around inspiration, Jahmil French, passed away yesterday. Only posting because I see the story getting out there. I will have more to say about him later. Right now we’re all just processing this devastating news.

— Joshua Safran (@Anthologist) March 2, 2021

French’s former Degrassi co-stars took to social media to share their condolences following news of the actor’s death, including Andrea Lewis.

Rest Easy King 🙏🏽❤️ #JahmilFrench pic.twitter.com/UrVHbG2Zn3

— Andrea Lewis (@missandrealewis) March 2, 2021

Annie Clark shared a video of French dancing on Twitter with a message that read, “Heartbroken over the loss of our friend Jahmil French. So full of energy and fun. He was always dancing. A true talent and a great friend. We will all miss you so much Jahmil.”

Heartbroken over the loss of our friend Jahmil French. This video is how I’ll always think of him. So full of energy and fun. He was always dancing. A true talent and a great friend. We will all miss you so much Jahmil 💔 pic.twitter.com/hgKibZ1h1j

— Annie Clark (@anniejclark) March 2, 2021

Christine Prosperi, another Degrassi alumn shared pictures of her and French on Twitter, stating “My heart is so heavy.. Truly one of a kind. Rest In Peace 🕊”

My heart is so heavy.. Truly one of a kind. Rest In Peace 🕊 pic.twitter.com/vW31v2U5BL

— Cristine Prosperi (@CrisProsperi) March 2, 2021

Melinda Shankar, who played French’s love interest on Degrassi,  wrote a touching tribute to French on her Instagram saying he will “always hold such a special place in her heart”.  Fans of the show came to refer to their relationship as “Bhandurner,” which the actress referenced as she honored French.

“Thank you for being one of the most talented, compassionate, kindest, funniest friends I have,” she added.  You were so loved. Sharing some of my fav pics over the years to highlight his bright light. I’ll miss our dance offs.#Bhandurner forever.”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Melinda Leanna Shankar (@mindyshankar)

Christina Milian, who starred in Soundtrack wrote a message under French’s Instagram post from January saying “You will be missed. 😢 Rest peacefully King.”

French’s agent Gabrielle Kachman said in a statement, “It is with a heavy heart that I confirm the passing of a dear friend and client Jahmil French.’” He will be remembered by many for his passion for the arts, his commitment to his craft, and his vibrant personality. I ask that you keep his family and friends in your thoughts and prayers at this difficult time.”

Article continues after video.

There are no details on the cause of his death. Here’s a look back at French’s roles over the years.

01
French played Dave Turner On ‘Degrassi: The Next Generation’ from 2009-2013
Remembering 'Degrassi' Star Jahmil French
02
While On Degrassi, French Won A Canadian Screen Award Nomination for Best Performance in a Children’s/Youth Program/Series
Remembering 'Degrassi' Star Jahmil French
03
French Starred Alongside Nia Long in The Divide in 2014
Remembering 'Degrassi' Star Jahmil French
04
In 2018 French Played Snacks In The Sitcom Let’s Get Physical
Remembering 'Degrassi' Star Jahmil French
05
For His Role In 2018’s Boost, French Was Nominated For Best Supporting Actor By Prix Iris
Remembering 'Degrassi' Star Jahmil French
06
In 2019, French Played Dante Mendoza in the Netflix Series ‘Soundtrack’
Remembering 'Degrassi' Star Jahmil French

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