Esta TerBlanche, the South African actress best known for her portrayal of Gillian Andrassy on the American daytime drama “All My Children,” has died at age 51.
TerBlanche died Friday in Los Angeles, publicist Lisa Rodrigo confirmed to The Times. The cause of death is pending and is expected to be released by the medical examiner.
“I am heartbroken to hear of Esta’s passing. She was and always will be a beautiful soul who I will miss every day,” Rodrigo said via email. “I am proud to have known her and call her not only a client but a friend.”
Born on January 7, 1973 in Rustenburg, South Africa, TerBlanche won the title of Miss Teen South Africa in 1991. She moved into acting and gained prominence portraying Bienkie Naudé Hartman in the popular South African television drama “Egoli: Place of Gold” from 1992 to 1995.
In 1997, TerBlanche landed the role of Gillian Andrassy on “All My Children.” Set in Pine Valley, a fictional, affluent suburb of Philadelphia, the series focuses on the complex dynamics and hidden truths within several families. The series has tackled provocative and socially significant topics throughout its history, such as abortion during the 1970s, AIDS in the 1980s, and same-sex marriage in the 2000s.
Andrassy, a character known for a tumultuous history, including a scandalous romance and many dramatic twists, left a lasting impression on viewers until her character was written off the show in 2001. TerBlanche briefly returned in 2011 for a touching appearance as a ghost.
Reflecting on her return to “All My Children,” TerBlanche told Soap Opera Digest how touching it was for her and her former co-star Cameron Mathison, who played husband Ryan Lavery, to work together again.
“When I came back, it was very emotional for me and Cameron,” she said. “When we saw each other, we both started crying. At the time, we hadn’t seen each other in years, so it was a very emotional moment for us.”
TerBlanche’s on-screen career also included a guest appearance on the ABC sitcom “Spin City” and hosting roles on South African shows such as “Carte Blanche,” “Supermodel” and “Wish You Were Here.”
He is survived by his father and sister.
