Jahmil French, who rose to fame as Dave Turner on the hit Canadian TV series Degrassi: The Next Generation, has tragically died at age 29.
“It is with a heavy heart that I confirm the passing of a dear friend and client Jahmil French,” a representative for French told 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.”
The news was also confirmed by friend and coworker Joshua Safran, who worked with him on Netflix’s Soundtrack in 2019.
“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
A cause of death is yet to be revealed.
Following his tragic passing, fans and costars flocked to social media to pay their respects to the actor.
Melinda Shankar, who played his on-screen love interest Alli Bhandari on Degrassi, took to Twitter to announce that he is “forever in my heart.”
Bhandurner forever in my heart. pic.twitter.com/aWLHzsGUkf
— Melinda Shankar (@melindashankar) March 2, 2021
Annie Clark also took to Twitter to share a video memory of French dancing and having fun.
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
Jessica Tyler, who played Jenna, released a lengthy statement on his passing on her Instagram story:
“I, along with my cast mates, had the pleasure of working with Jahmil for several years. And though it was work, it never felt that way…. Though not all of us have kept in close contact since Degrassi ended — and not for any reason other than the simple fact that time and life go on — at the end of the day, we are a family. Always have been, always will be.
“You are so loved, Jahmil,” she added. “My heart goes out to you and your family. Rest in Peace. Your kindness and bright light will not be forgotten.”
While French was best known for his 100+ episode stint on Degrassi, his film and TV credits also include Boost, Remedy, The Divide and Incorporated.
