Isabelle Tate dead at 23: ‘9-1-1: Nashville actress was a ‘fighter’ who passed away from rare Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease. Donate to CMTA.
The entertainment community is mourning the loss of rising actress Isabelle Tate, who passed away on Sunday, October 19, at her home. She was 23.
Tate, a native of Nashville, had recently appeared in the series premiere of the new ABC drama, 9-1-1: Nashville, marking her first major television role. Her talent agency, McCray Agency, confirmed the tragic news, and on Thursday, revealed her cause of death was complications from a rare form of Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT), a progressive neurological disorder.
A Fire That Could Not Be Dimmed
Isabelle Tate was described by those who knew her as “full of fire” and a “fighter”. Having been diagnosed with the neuromuscular disease at age 13, the condition gradually weakened her muscles, requiring her to use a wheelchair.
Despite the profound physical challenges, the Middle Tennessee State University graduate was determined to live life to the fullest. Her obituary captured her spirit: “Isabelle was full of fire, a fighter, never once making excuses for the fact that she might have a disability relative to others.”8
She was an aspiring musician and a passionate advocate for animal welfare, often volunteering at local shelters.
Achieving Her Dream
Tate’s recent success in landing the role of “Julie” in the pilot episode of 9-1-1: Nashville was a testament to her resilient spirit. The role, in which her character was involved in an accident, aired just a few weeks ago on October 9.
“She booked the first series she auditioned for, 9-1-1 Nashville. She had a wonderful time,” her agent shared in a heartfelt tribute on social media, expressing the agency’s deep sadness over the sudden loss.
In an open 2022 Instagram post, Tate had candidly shared her journey with CMT, writing, “I don’t know why these were the cards I was dealt in life, but I can’t change it so I’m choosing to embrace it and not let it define me.”
The family has requested privacy during this time and has asked for memorial contributions to be dedicated to the Charcot-Marie-Tooth Association (CMTA).
A funeral service is scheduled to be held today, Friday, October 24, in Brentwood, Tennessee. The upcoming episode of 9-1-1: Nashville is expected to include an in memoriam card to honor the young actress.
