Ariana DeBose Pays Emotional Tribute As Her Mother Gina Michelle DeBose Dies At 57

Oscar-winning actress Ariana DeBose is mourning the loss of her mother, Gina Michelle DeBose, who passed away on Sunday morning at the age of 57 due to complications from stage 3 ovarian cancer.

On Tuesday, Ariana shared the heartbreaking news on Instagram with a series of photos of her mother. In a heartfelt caption, she wrote, “I couldn’t be more proud of her and how she fought this insidious disease over the past 3 years. She was 57 years young. She was my favorite person, my biggest fan and toughest critic. My best friend. She was my date to every important moment in my professional and personal life — and I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

Remembering Gina Michelle DeBose

Gina Michelle DeBose worked as a public school teacher in North Carolina. Ariana often referred to her lovingly as “Miss Gina.” In a 2022 interview with People, the actress spoke about how her mother’s strength shaped her life.

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Ariana also brought Gina as her date to the 2018 Tony Awards when she was nominated. Reflecting on her childhood in her tribute, the actress credited her mother for raising her as a single parent: “She fought like hell to give me a good life, a good education and every opportunity in the world. I wouldn’t be where I am without her.”

She added that her mother was deeply respected by colleagues, students, and members of the community. “Her greatest and most proud achievement would always be to have made her proud,” Ariana wrote.

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A daughter’s final words

The actress concluded her tribute with moving words: “I love you mommy. Now travel amongst the seas, the winds and the angels as I know you always loved to do.”

Along with her post, Ariana also included information about organizations that support cancer patients, such as The National Ovarian Cancer Society and Teal Diva.

Ariana DeBose’s journey

Born in Wilmington, North Carolina, and raised in Raleigh, Ariana DeBose began dancing at the age of 3, training in ballet, tap, and jazz. She later explored acting and singing in high school before making her first big appearance on So You Think You Can Dance in 2009. Her Broadway breakthrough came with Bring It On: The Musical in 2011, followed by roles in Motown: The Musical and Pippin.

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Today, she is one of Hollywood’s most celebrated performers — but Ariana has always credited her mother’s sacrifices for shaping her journey.