Fans of BET’s reality television series Baldwin Hills are mourning the death of one of its stars. Ashley Gerren Taylor, professionally known as Gerren Taylor, has reportedly passed away. She was only 30-years-old.
Born and raised in Los Angeles, Taylor made her mark from a young age. At just 12-years-old she was discovered at a Los Angeles Park by a talent scout and soon became the youngest model to be signed to the runway division of LA Models.
In 2007, she became more notable after being cast in Baldwin Hills, a show centered around wealthy teenagers in the Los Angeles neighborhood. The show ran for three seasons, ending in 2009.
Taylor also appeared in the documentary America the Beautiful which focused on America’s obsession with self-image and beauty issues.
Unfortunately, her life and career were cut short when on Sunday the model passed. Initially reported to have died in her sleep, it is now being reported that the cause of her death is still unknown. She leaves behind a 7-year-old daughter.
BET issued a statement on Monday in regards to the news of her death. “The entire BET family mourns the passing of one of our own, Ms. Ashley Gerren Taylor, beloved star of Baldwin Hills,” the statement read. “The untimely passing of such a young, bright light is difficult to process. BET’s thoughts and prayers go out to Ashley’s friends and family during this time.”
Just got the worst news. I hate it’s on the internet already. RIP to my @BET fam, my babes Gerren (Baldwin Hills)
— Ray Cunningham ✊🏽✊🏾✊🏿 (@MissterRay) April 11, 2021
Taylor’s friend and Love and Hip-Hop cast member Ray Cunningham, aka Mister Ray, shared the news on his social media. “Just got the worst news,” he tweeted. “I hate it’s on the internet already. RIP to my [BET] fam, my babes Gerren (Baldwin Hills).”
Taking to Instagram, he shared further detail that he’s known Taylor since 2006. “I was sneaking her into parties with me,” he shared along with a laughing emoji. “She was one of the first people to reach out to me when I shared my alopecia diagnosis and she shared [hers] with me. I ❤️ u. You will be missed. BET fam… Rest well love.”
Although the reason for her death is still unknown, some users on Twitter say that she was suffering from the auto-immune disease, lupus. Her former castmate and ex, Moriah Johnson, also shared a tribute to her as he was in disbelief.
“Still can’t believe it,” he began. “Feels like I’ve lost a piece of my childhood. It’s difficult to comprehend the brevity of life at times, and so we must live and love as best we can while we can. Sending my love and prayers to the Taylor family and all affected by this untimely loss. Such a beautiful and confident soul. Enjoy your rest.”
May she rest in peace. Keep her family and young daugther in your prayers.