Ariana DeBose is grieving the loss of her mother, Gina Michelle DeBose, who passed away at the age of 57 after a three-year fight with stage 3 ovarian cancer.
The 34-year-old West Side Story star shared the heartbreaking news on social media, describing her mother as her biggest supporter and closest friend.
Remembering a Warrior and Lifelong Supporter
In her tribute, Ariana described her mother as “gorgeous, hilarious, outspoken, warrior queen” and reflected on the bond they shared.
She revealed that her mother was not only her confidante but also her date to every major event in her life—both personal and professional.
“At 10:28 am on August 17th my gorgeous, hilarious, outspoken, warrior queen Mother—Gina Michelle DeBose—passed away due to complications with stage 3 ovarian cancer.
I couldn’t be more proud of her and how she fought this insidious disease over the past three years. She was 57 years young,” Ariana wrote.
A Lifelong Advocate and Educator
Gina DeBose dedicated nearly three decades to teaching, inspiring countless students as an 8th grade social studies teacher.
Ariana praised her mother’s creativity, compassion, and relentless advocacy for her students and colleagues.
“She thrived in a classroom. Her creativity knew no bounds.
She was beloved and incredibly respected by her colleagues and students alike.
The greatest advocate for the underdog, a believer in arts education, and the smartest person I know,” Ariana shared.
Fond Memories Beyond Teaching
Beyond her professional life, Gina enjoyed painting, playing cards, listening to music, and spending time with her cats.
Ariana highlighted her mother’s heart-forward nature, valuing hard work, empathy, and speaking her mind without hesitation.
“She was a force of epic proportion. My greatest and most proud achievement will always be to have made her proud,” Ariana said.
Honoring Her Mother at the Oscars
Ariana previously paid tribute to her mother during her 2022 Oscar win for Best Supporting Actress, dedicating the award to Gina.
She also recounted the joy of having her mother visit the West Side Story set, where Gina was left starstruck by director Steven Spielberg.
“Watching Gina become speechless was amazing. Love you, Mom,” Ariana said.
A Lasting Legacy
Through her love, guidance, and tireless dedication to education, Gina DeBose left an indelible mark on those around her.
Ariana’s heartfelt tribute captures a relationship filled with admiration, gratitude, and profound love—a bond that will endure beyond her mother’s passing.
