Degrassi star Jahmil French dies aged 29: 'Devastating'

Degrassi: Next Generation star Jahmil French has died, a representative of the actor has confirmed.

He was just 29 years old.

The news was shared to Twitter on Tuesday by screenwriter and producer Joshua Safran who worked with Jahmil on Soundtrack, a Netflix series released in 2019.

 Jahmil French visits Build to discuss the series
Jahmil French has died aged 29. Photo: Getty Images

The news was later confirmed in an official statement.

"It is with a heavy heart that I confirm the passing of a dear friend and client Jahmil French," a representative for the star said in a statement published by People.

"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."

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"I can confirm my good friend, co-worker, and all around inspiration, Jahmil French, passed away yesterday," producer 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."

Jahmil rose to fame playing Dave Turner in Degrassi: The Next Generation between 2009 and 2013 as well as appearing in a number of films and series.

The 29-year-old was born in Canada.

Luke Bilyk, Aislinn Paul, AlexSteeler, Melinda Shankar, Annie Clark, Jordan Todosey, Jahmil French and Munro Chambers from
Jahmil's 'Degrassi: The Next Generation' co-stars have flooded social media with tributes. Photo: AP

Co-stars of the actor took to social media to share tributes to the star whose cause of death has not been revealed.

"Still in shock," co-star Chloe Rose wrote on Twitter. "Jahmil will be missed. He was an integral part of the Degrassi family and certainly a huge part of my Degrassi days. He always wanted to make people laugh and smile, a true joy to be around. Rest in Peace."

Melinda Shankar, who played his primary love interest on Degrassi, shared a series of snaps in a touching Instagram tribute.

Co-star Mindy Shankar shared a tribute to her on-screen love interest on Instagram. Photo: Instagram/ mindyshankar
Co-star Mindy Shankar shared a tribute to her on-screen love interest on Instagram. Photo: Instagram/ mindyshankar

"You will always hold such a special place in my heart," she wrote. "Thank you for being one of the most talented, compassionate, kindest, funniest friends I have. 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."

'Bhandurner' refers to the pair's on-screen couple name.

Stefan Brogren, who played Snake, wrote: "He performed Dave with such sensitivity and thoughtfulness and could make me laugh so easily."

"t was a pleasure to work with him and he will be missed. This is a real loss. Rest In Peace."

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