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Tributes flow in for ‘Freaks and Geeks’ actress Jessica Campbell after her unexpected passing

The world of TV is in mourning following the death of former Freaks and Geeks actress Jessica Campbell, who unexpectedly passed away at the end of last year.

Jessica Campbell, the Hollywood actress known for her coming of age roles, has died unexpectedly at the age of 38.

In a statement to TMZ, Campbell’s family confirmed that Jessica died in Portland, Oregon on December 29, 2020. On the day of her death, the actress was treating patients in her naturopathic clinic. Intending to return home with her mother and aunt, the actress quickly went to the bathroom but never returned.

jessica campbell
Photo: Everett Collection

Her aunt was the first to find her collapsed on the bathroom floor. Once the EMT’s arrived, they sadly were not able to revive her. Jessica’s family are still awaiting the autopsy results from the Multnomah County Medical Examiner in Oregon to confirm her cause of death.

The star began acting in 1992, making her debut in the TV movie In the Best Interest of the Children alongside Sarah Jessica Parker. Campbell was best known for her role as Tammy Metzler in the 1999 film Election. 

Her Election co-star Reece Witherspoon has taken to Twitter to express her grief, saying she was “heartbroken” at the news.

The star died “suddenly and unexpectedly,” according to her GoFundMe page, tragically leaving behind her 10-year-old son. The fundraiser was set up by her cousin Sarah Wessling to cover funeral costs and to provide for the boy.

“While coping with this unexpected and tragic turn of events and planning for Oliver’s future, the family is also faced with unexpected cremation, memorial, and probate expenses. All funds collected will go towards meeting expenses and providing for Oliver,” wrote Wessling.

Campbell was reportedly suffering from congestion leading up to her death, but authorities have ruled out COVID-19 as a cause.