Kimberly Hébert Gregory, acclaimed for her dynamic presence in TV, film, and theatre, left an indelible mark as an actress, mother, and advocate. Her journey from Houston’s stages to HBO stardom is remembered for its depth, artistry, and heartfelt humanity.
Early Life and Education
Kimberly Rochelle Hébert Gregory was born on December 7, 1972, in Houston, Texas. The youngest of three siblings, she honed her creative passion early, pursuing the performing arts at The High School for the Performing and Visual Arts. She went on to receive a BA in psychology from Mount Holyoke College and earned a master’s in social work from the University of Chicago. Her well-rounded education deeply informed her empathetic on-screen portrayals and real-life advocacy for mental health.
Career Beginnings: Theatre Roots
Kimberly began her acting career in Chicago theatre, receiving nominations for Best Supporting Actress at the Joseph Jefferson Awards and an Equity Branch award in the late 1990s. Her 2012 Drama Desk Award nomination for “By The Way, Meet Vera Stark” solidified her standing as a reliable and compelling stage talent.
Breakthrough and Television Success
Her television breakthrough came as Dr. Belinda Brown in HBO’s Vice Principals (2016-2017), a role that critics and fans celebrated for its nuance and charisma. She became widely known for her versatility, moving fluidly between recurring roles in hit series, including:
- “Devious Maids” (Lucinda Miller)
- “Brooklyn Nine-Nine”
- “Better Call Saul”
- “Kevin (Probably) Saves the World” as Yvette
- “Craig of the Creek” (voice of Nicole Williams)
- “The Chi”, “All Rise”, “The Act”, “Genius: Aretha”, and more.
Guest appearances on “Grey’s Anatomy,” “Two and a Half Men,” “The Big Bang Theory,” and “Private Practice” cemented her ubiquity in Hollywood.
Notable Filmography
Her film credits span comedy, drama, and independent film, including:
- “I Think I Love My Wife” (2007)
- “Red Hook Summer” (2012)
- “Five Feet Apart” (2019) as Nurse Barbara
- “Miss Virginia” (2019)
- “John Henry” (2020).
In animation, she voiced key characters in “Craig of the Creek,” its film prequel, and spinoff series, as well as Netflix’s “Carol & the End of the World” (2023).
Revenue, Net Worth, and Investments
Estimates of Kimberly Hébert Gregory’s net worth at the time of her death range from $3 million to $10 million, derived from stage earnings, television contracts, film salaries, and royalties from voice acting. Key revenue sources included:
- $1.5 million for two seasons of “Vice Principals”
- Guest spots on major TV shows ($50,000 or more per episode), accruing an estimated $500,000–$1 million over her career
- Leading film roles bringing $200,000–$300,000 each
- Steady royalties from animation and theatre.
She invested prudently, with assets such as a $400,000 Houston condo and a conservative stock portfolio. Kimberly prioritised giving back, donating to mental health causes and prioritising a comfortable but purposeful lifestyle.
Family and Relationships
Kimberly was married to actor-singer Chester Gregory, with whom she had a son. Their shared dedication to the arts drew them together before they eventually divorced. Family and friends regularly highlighted her devotion to her son and her role as a mentor and supportive presence for fellow artists.
Legacy, Death, and Tributes
Kimberly Hébert Gregory passed away on October 3, 2025, at the age of 52. The cause of death was not disclosed to the public. Her passing prompted an outpouring of tributes from her ex-husband, colleagues, and the entertainment industry. Walton Goggins, her Vice Principals co-star, and many others remembered her as a “ray of light,” praising her artistry, mentorship, and resilience.
Her vibrant spirit, advocacy for mental health, and groundbreaking roles, especially as a Black woman in Hollywood, remain a touchstone for aspiring artists.
Controversies
Throughout her career, Kimberly Hébert Gregory managed to avoid major public controversies, focusing instead on her craft and advocacy. She was admired for her integrity both on and off screen, with much of her press devoted to her work rather than scandal.
Recent News and Impact
The entertainment world mourned Kimberly’s loss in October 2025, with tributes from major outlets, co-stars, and fans. Her impact, especially in roles like Dr. Belinda Brown and Yvette in “Kevin (Probably) Saves the World,” is credited as opening doors for more diverse representation in mainstream media.
FAQs About Kimberly Hebert Gregory
Who was Kimberly Hébert Gregory?
Kimberly Hébert Gregory was an acclaimed American actress best known for roles in HBO’s “Vice Principals,” the animated series “Craig of the Creek,” and numerous appearances in film and television.
What was her net worth?
Estimates put her net worth between $3 million and $10 million, drawn from a steady career in stage, film, television, and voice acting.
What awards and nominations did she receive?
She was nominated for a Drama Desk Award for “By The Way, Meet Vera Stark” and was recognised by the Equity Branch Joseph Jefferson Awards early in her career.
Was Kimberly Hébert Gregory married?
She was married to actor-singer Chester Gregory, with whom she had a son.
How did Kimberly Hébert Gregory die?
She passed away on October 3, 2025, at the age of 52. The official cause of death was not disclosed publicly.
