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Jahmil French, Star of 'Degrassi: The Next Generation', Dies At 29

The actor was best known for his role as Dave Turner in the Canadian teen series.

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)

Jahmil French, best known for his role as Dave Turner in Canadian teen series Degrassi: The Next Generation, has died. He was 29 years old. The cause of death has not yet been confirmed. His agent confirmed the news on Monday, according to Variety. “It is with a heavy heart that I confirm the passing of a dear friend and client Jahmil French,” she said in a statement. “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.”



 

The show Degrassi: The Next Generation first premiered in Canada on CTV way back in 2001. The show was later picked up by The N network in the US (a branch of Nickelodeon now known as TeenNick) and distributed worldwide in over 140 territories. According to the website, it is "a pull-no-punches dramatic take on the real-life issues of high school life. With equal measures of humour, angst and heart, the students of Degrassi grapple with a series of “firsts” as they begin their journey into adulthood. Pushing their own limits and testing the bonds of family and friends, the students find their own ways to deal with a far-reaching range of issues, from homophobia, abuse, and violence to burgeoning sexuality, dating, and heartbreak. Degrassi: The Next Generation continues to bring viewers together as fans across the world sing along to the series’ “Whatever It Takes” theme song."



 

French's time on the show is being fondly remembered and many costars are paying tribute to the Canadian actor on social media. Melinda Shankar, 29, who played Alli Bhandari, a love interest of French's character, shared a heartbreaking message. Their relationship has been termed as "Bhandurner," which the actress referenced as she honored French, reports PEOPLE. She wrote: @jahmilfrench you will always hold such a special place in my heart. 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.



 

Sam Earle, who played K.C., tweeted: Jahmil had such talent and charisma that it would have been intimidating were he not also a real gentleman. He would show up to my house-parties with a crew of dancers and they would elevate the mood immediately. When life got messy he would handle himself with grace and levity.



 

Screenwriter and producer Joshua Safran, who worked with the late actor on the Netflix series Soundtrack in 2019, also confirmed the young star's death on Tuesday. Safran wrote: 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.