Anne Heche dies at 53
Loved ones of the Emmy Award-winning actress and mother of two pay tribute: ‘Today we lost a bright light’
Emmy Award-winning actress Anne Heche has died, she was 53.
“Today we lost a bright light, a kind and most joyful soul, a loving mother, and a loyal friend,” a rep for the star told in a statement on behalf of Heche’s family and friends.
“Anne will be deeply missed but she lives on through her beautiful sons, her iconic body of work, and her passionate advocacy. Her bravery for always standing in her truth, spreading her message of love and acceptance, will continue to have a lasting impact.”
Although Heche was technically dead under California law at the time of the announcement, she had “long chosen to donate her organs,” therefore her heart was still pumping and she was still on life support to give OneLegacy Foundation ample time to discover candidates who would be a match.
A rep for Heche confirmed to PEOPLE that an organ recipient match was made and she would be removed from life support on Sunday evening.
Coleman “Coley” Laffoon, Heche’s ex-husband, shared a tearful, sincere tribute to the late actress after her death. He also discussed how their 20-year-old son, Homer Laffoon, is dealing with the loss.
“I adored her and will always mourn her,” he said in an Instagram Reel, adding, “Homer is well.” Of course, he’s in mourning, and it’s difficult for him. As you can obviously understand, it’s really tough. But he’s surrounded by family, he’s strong, and he’ll be well.”
The news comes a week after she crashed her car into a house in the Mar Vista neighborhood of Los Angeles, leaving the home destroyed and the actress in critical condition.
She never regained consciousness.