Keisha Nash Whitaker, Forest Whitakers Ex-Wife and Model, Dies at 51 After Cancer Battle
Keisha Nash Whitaker, the former wife of Oscar-winning actor Forest Whitaker, has passed away at the age of 51. She died on December 7, 2023, after a long battle with cancer, according to her family.
Who Was Keisha Nash Whitaker?
Keisha Nash Whitaker was an American former model, actress, film producer, and entrepreneur. She was born on March 8, 1972, in Boston, Massachusetts, to her parents. She had a brother named Jeffrey Nash, who is also an actor, producer, and writer.
She began her career as a model and was represented by Ford Models and Elite Model Management. She appeared in several magazines, commercials, and music videos. She later ventured into acting and producing, working on films such as “Intimate Portrait,” “Proud,” and “Kassim the Dream.”
She met Forest Whitaker on the set of the 1994 film “Blown Away,” where she played his love interest. They fell in love and got married in 1996 in Jamaica. They had two daughters together, Sonnet and True. They also raised two children from their previous relationships, Forest’s son Ocean and Keisha’s daughter Autumn.
They were married for 22 years and were considered one of the most stable and supportive couples in Hollywood. They frequently attended red carpet-events, charity functions, and award shows together. They also collaborated on several projects, such as the documentary “Serving Life” and the TV series “Black Panther.”
However, in 2018, they announced their separation and filed for divorce, citing irreconcilable differences. The divorce was finalized in 2021, with both parties agreeing to share custody of their minor daughter True and divide their assets amicably. They remained on good terms and co-parented their children.
How Did Keisha Nash Whitaker Die?
Keisha Nash Whitaker died after a long and courageous fight with cancer, according to her family. She was diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer in 2019 and underwent chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery. She also tried alternative treatments, such as acupuncture, meditation, and herbal remedies.
She was optimistic and hopeful about her recovery and shared her journey on social media. She posted inspirational messages, photos, and videos of her family, friends, and fans. She also thanked her ex-husband Forest for his support and love.
She wrote on Instagram in October 2023: “I am so grateful for the life I have. I have been blessed with so much love, joy, and peace. I have an amazing family, wonderful friends, and incredible fans. I have a strong faith, a resilient spirit, and a hopeful heart. I have a purpose, a passion, and a vision. I have cancer, but cancer does not have me. I am a warrior, a survivor, and a miracle. I am Keisha Nash Whitaker, and I am alive.”
Unfortunately, her condition worsened in November 2023 and she was hospitalized. She passed away peacefully on December 7, 2023, surrounded by her loved ones. Her family released a statement confirming her death and asking for privacy and respect.
The statement read: “It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Keisha Nash Whitaker. She was a beautiful, talented, and generous soul who touched many lives with her grace, kindness, and courage. She fought a valiant battle against cancer and inspired us all with her strength and faith. She was a devoted mother, daughter, sister, aunt, friend, and partner. She was our angel on earth and now our angel in heaven. We are heartbroken and devastated by her loss, but we are comforted by the memories we shared and the love we felt. We ask for your prayers, compassion, and respect for our privacy at this difficult time. We thank you for your support and condolences.”
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How Did Forest Whitaker React to Keisha Nash Whitaker’s Death?
Forest Whitaker, who was married to Keisha Nash Whitaker for 22 years, expressed his grief and sorrow over her death. He took to Twitter to pay tribute to his ex-wife and the mother of his children. He wrote: “I am deeply saddened by the passing of my ex-wife Keisha Nash Whitaker. She was a wonderful woman, a loving mother, and a dear friend. She was brave, strong, and beautiful.
She fought hard and never gave up. She was an inspiration to me and many others. I will always cherish the time we spent together and the memories we made. I will always love her and miss her. My heart goes out to her family, especially our children, who are in pain and mourning. I pray for their healing and peace. Rest in peace, Keisha. You are free from pain and suffering. You are in God’s hands.”
He also shared a photo of them smiling and holding hands at an event. He captioned it: “You are my sunshine, my only sunshine. You make me happy when skies are gray. You’ll never know, dear, how much I love you. Please don’t take my sunshine away.”
What Was Keisha Nash Whitaker’s Legacy?
Keisha Nash Whitaker left behind a legacy of love, joy, and peace. She touched many lives with her grace, kindness, and courage. She was a successful model, actress, producer, and entrepreneur. She was a devoted mother, daughter, sister, aunt, friend, and partner. She was a warrior, a survivor, and a miracle.
She also raised awareness and funds for various causes, such as breast cancer research, women’s rights, education, and the environment. She supported several organizations, such as the American Cancer Society, the Susan G. Komen Foundation, the Women’s Media Center, the United Nations, and the African Wildlife Foundation.
She will be remembered for her beauty, talent, and generosity. She will be honored for her strength, faith, and vision. She will be celebrated for her life, her work, and her spirit.
She was Keisha Nash Whitaker, and she was alive.
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