Actress Yvette Wilson dies from cancer aged 48

Well-known for her role as Andell in Moesha and its spin-off Meet The Parkers, Wilson also starred in various films including Friday, House Party 3 and Poetic Justice. Towards the end of her career she appeared on Russell Simmons' Def Comedy Jam.

A close friend said Wilson - who also appeared in the TV series The Parkers and the movies House Party 2 and 3 - died of cervical cancer.

Wilson's cancer returned recently after several years in remission, said Jeffrey Pittle.

Pittle made the announcement on a website he had set up to raise funds for Wilson's treatment.

"It is with a heavy heart that I can verify that Yvette passed away last evening after a lengthy and hard battle," he said.

"She was a fighter to the end, and her talent, humour and amazing friendship will be sorely missed. She will live on through her awesome body of work."

The actress had undergone a kidney transplant before the return of her cancer.

Her co-star across a number of series, Brandy Norwood, paid respects to the actress on Twitter, writing 'So saddened by the loss of Yvette Wilson. She was such a beautiful spirit. May she rest in peace.'

Wilson's Moesha co-star Shar Jackson said on Twitter: "Oh god...My heart is soooo unbelievably broken," adding later: "I wanna thank all my tweeties for their prayers but god has chosen to take my sister Yvette home...".

Ray actor Jamie Foxx tweeted: "God bless u Yvette Wilson. Tears in my eyes. Keep God laughing."

Fugees singer Lauryn Hill wrote her on website: "R.I.P Yvette Wilson (Andell From The Parkers). She recently lost her battle with cancer. Life is short, so cherish yours."

Wilson was born in Los Angeles and began her career as a stand-up comedian.

tags: yvette wilson died, cancer, moesha, andell, parker