by Known for her work in 24 and Timeless as well as Marvel’s Runaways, Annie Wersching passed suddenly on Sunday at the age of 45 from cancer.
Her spokeswoman verified the information to Deadline.
In the movie Runaways, Wersching played Leslie Dean, the head of the Church of Gibborim and a former PRIDE leader (Promoting Resilience, Independence, Dedication & Excellence).
Karolina Dean, one of the original Runaways, is also the mother of Wersching’s character.
Karolina in the Marvel series was portrayed by Virginia Gardner, who sent a homage to her on-screen mother and fellow actor on Instagram:
“So saddened to hear of this wonderful woman’s passing. Rest in Peace Annie.”
Wersching appeared in Star Trek: Picard as the Borg queen and The Rookie, according to the Deadline story, even after the actress learned she had cancer in 2020.
Wersching is also well-known for providing Tess’ voice in the The Last Of Us video game series from Naughty Dog.
Stephen Full, Wersching’s spouse, said the following:
“There is a cavernous hole in the soul of this family today. But she left us the tools to fill it. She found wonder in the simplest moment. She didn’t require music to dance. She taught us not to wait for adventure to find you. ‘Go find it. It’s everywhere.’ And find it we shall.
Ever Carradine, who portrayed Janet Stein in Runaways, posted on Instagram to show her support for her Marvel co-star:
“As I drove our boys, the true loves of her life, down the winding driveway and street, she would yell BYE! until we were out of earshot and into the world. I can still hear it ringing. Bye my Buddie. ‘I love you little family…’ “
“We lost a ray of sunshine this morning. I [love] you Annie Wersching and hope you’re dancing with your beloved mama while watching over your sweet boys. I’m so lucky to have been your friend.”
In Runaways, Kevin Weisman played Dale Yorkes, and he wrote the following moving homage to his friend:
“My dear, sweet friend Annie Wersching passed away this morning. Truly the most talented, funny, considerate actor, friend, human. Incredible Mom to three sweet boys. Please consider helping them out any way you can. Much love.”
The Runaways co-star Angel Parker also posted a brief but heartfelt tribute to her on her Instagram story:
Brittany Ishibashi, played by Tina Minoru, said she is “grateful” for Wersching’s “light and love” in the following way:
“Our beautiful Annie
Love you forever, sweet friend
I don’t have too many words right now except that I am so grateful for your light and love…holding you in my heart forever and ever.”
Wersching leaves behind her husband Stephen as well as Freddie, Ozzie, and Archie, her three children. Her family has started a GoFundMe campaign.
The Direct offers Wershing’s family and friends our sympathy during this trying time.
