9-1-1: Nashville actress, Isabelle “Izzy” Tate passed away on Sunday after battling a long illness caused by a rare condition known as Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease.
A Life and Career Stolen Too Soon
Growing up in Nashville, Tennessee, Tate developed a passion for acting at a relatively young age. She was seen in various child commercials as a child actor before putting a hold on her acting pursuits to concentrate on college. Tate was a business graduate of Middle Tennessee State University. This past year was a long-awaited comeback for Tate as an actress. Defying all odds, she successfully completed her first audition, taking on a role in ABC’s upcoming drama series, 9-1-1: Nashville, which features Jessica Capshaw alongside Chris O’Donnell.
The pilot, filmed in June and released on October 6, would tragically become her first and only adult role.
Her Illness Shadowed Every Dream
In 2022, Tate revealed her condition on Instagram to her fans about being diagnosed with it at the age of 13.
“When I was first diagnosed, I couldn’t fully understand what it was or grasp what it could be,” she explained. Later, she comprehended being reliant on a wheelchair but was struggling to accept that she had to rely on others for help as she gradually lost independence.
Tate, however, was not going to allow this condition in life to define who she was. “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,” she told her audience. This speech was a reminder to everyone about the need to treat others with kindness since, as Tate explained, “you really never know what someone else is going through.”
A Heartfelt Goodbye From Those Who Loved Her Most
The owner of the McCray Agency, which was representing Tate, Kim McCray, posted about Tate’s death:
“We are deeply saddened and completely heartbroken to share that Isabelle Tate passed away. I’ve known Izzy since she was a teenager… She booked the first series she auditioned for, 9-1-1: Nashville. She had a wonderful time.”
This was echoed in a statement from her family, who described her as “full of fire, a fighter, never once making excuses.” They recalled that she was a musical person who enjoyed composing and recording songs, as well as being a loyal friend and family member. “She was always the life of the party,” they offered.
Dreams that will never come true
Tate’s death remains a harsh reminder of just how fragile life really is. Even though Tate had a relatively short time in the spotlight, she inspired others with her spirit, drive, and tenacity.
She is survived by her mother, Katerina Tate, stepfather, Vishnu Jayamohan, father, John Daniel Tate, and sister, Daniella.
Instead of flowers, donations in memory of this dedicated individual may be made to the Charcot-Marie-Tooth Association, which supports research and care for patients with this disease.
