This morning, CBBC confirmed that 16-year-old Mya-Lecia Naylor has tragically passed away. They posted a photo of the young talent on their Instagram to reveal the harrowing news.
They wrote: “We are so sorry to have to tell you that Mya-Lecia Naylor, who you will know from “Millie Inbetween” and “Almost Never”, has very sadly died.”
“We will miss her enormously and we are sure that you will want to join us in sending all our love to her family and friends. If you would like to post a tribute to Mya-Lecia you can leave a message on the CBBC website,” they continued.
They encouraged youths to reach out to if they’re struggling: “We know this news is very upsetting, and it may help to share how you are feeling with a friend or an adult you trust. If you are struggling and there is no one you feel you can talk to about it, you can always call Childline on 0800 11 1.”
Tributes have been pouring in since news of the actresses' death broke this morning.
Rhianna Merralls tweeted: “Rest in peace Mya-Lecia Naylor. The Millie Inbetween cast is like a family to me and the show has such a special place in my heart. Mya was a great friend and I'm so lucky to have known her. We are heartbroken.”
We have just seen the news that Mya-Lecia Naylor has died at the young age of only 16. Mya starred in the CBBC Almost Never. While we never worked with Mya, we do know a few who worked along side Mya in the CBBC show. After watching Almost Never we know how talented Mya was. #RIP pic.twitter.com/38jpTFTWM7
— Big Pure Talent (@BigPureTalent) April 17, 2019
Emily Atack added: “So shocked and sad to hear about lovely Mya-Lecia Naylor. She was a beautiful and talented girl. A complete joy to be around on the set of Almost Never. Sending all my love to her family & friends. Rest in peace beautiful girl x”
Actress Nathalie Emmanuel wrote: “Very sad to hear the tragic news of Mya-Lecia Naylor’s passing. She was a part of the @aj_management family who represent me in the UK. Although I did not know her personally, I wanted to send my condolences to her family, friends and colleagues at this difficult time.”
If your child is upset by the sudden passing of @cbbc star Mya-Lecia Naylor, @BBCNewsround have this article with useful tips on how to help them https://t.co/peNesS7fb7 pic.twitter.com/qGNY8gHQJO
— BBC Breakfast (@BBCBreakfast) April 18, 2019
Mya-Lecia’s cause of death has not yet been confirmed.