(CNN) Denise Dowse, an actress and director who had parts in “Beverly Hills, 90210,” “Insecure,” and “Ray,” has passed away, her family confirmed to CNN on Sunday. She was 64.
The actress’ sister Tracey Dowse released a statement in which she said, “I have to announce her passing death with a sorrowful heart.”
She also shared the news of her sister’s passing on the actress’ Instagram page, recalling her as a supporter of African American theatre who was equally committed to promoting the industry among young people. Dowse directed performances for the Amazing Grace Conservatory, an inner-city youth theatrical training program, and performed in plays for the Negro Ensemble Company.
Dowse gained fame for her portrayal as Mrs. Yvonne Teasley in the popular television series “Beverly Hills, 90210,” and more recently, she played Molly Carter’s (Yvonne Orji) therapist in the HBO comedy series “Insecure.” The film “Remember Me: The Mahalia Jackson Story,” which had its premiere in April at the Pan African Film Festival, was one of many films and TV shows in which Dowse appeared in addition to her directing credits.
Tracey Dowse said to CNN, “I am very happy to have been her sister. “She illuminated the screen and stage. She was able to dance through life and have delight. something from which we can all learn.”
Along with Kevin McKidd as Dr. Owen Hunt, Jesse Williams as Dr. Jackson Avery, and Greg Germann as Dr. Thomas Koracick, Denise Dowse plays Lorraine Simms in “Grey’s Anatomy.”
In a statement released on Sunday, Dowse’s manager, Sandra Siegal of Siegal Company, recognized her client and friend.
“I’ve had the pleasure and blessing of managing Denise’s career for more than 25 years, working with her on projects related to it, and developing a personal connection. She was incredibly talented, attractive, elegant, eloquent, and loving. Her passing has left me inconsolable. Though I am at a loss, getting to know her has been very beneficial. Due to the fact that Denise actually affected so many people, her legacy and memories will endure forever “said Siegal.
Dowse has acted in a number of TV shows throughout the course of her decades-long career, including “Charmed,” “Girlfriends,” “The West Wing,” and “Law & Order.” According to her IMDB page, she also appeared in the films “Pleasantville” and “Requiem for a Dream.”
