The entertainment industry is mourning the loss of Keisha Nash Whitaker, the ex-wife of Oscar-winning actor Forest Whitaker. Keisha, who was also an actress and producer, passed away on December 7, 2023, at the age of 51. The cause of death has not been revealed, but sources say she had been battling a long-term illness.
Keisha’s family confirmed her death in a statement to people, saying, “We are heartbroken to announce the passing of our beloved Keisha Nash Whitaker. She was a loving mother, daughter, sister, aunt, and friend. She was a beautiful soul who touched many lives with her kindness, grace, and talent. She will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her.”
A Long and Loving Relationship
Keisha and Forest met 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 a romantic ceremony in Jamaica. They shared two daughters, Sonnet and True, and each had a child from a previous relationship, Autumn and Ocean.
The couple was known for their strong bond and support for each other’s careers. Keisha appeared in several films and TV shows, such as Proud, Intimate Portrait, and Kassim the Dream. She also co-produced the documentary Serving Life with Forest, who won an Academy Award for his role in The Last King of Scotland.
A Surprising Split
In 2018, after 22 years of marriage, Forest filed for divorce from Keisha, citing irreconcilable differences. The news came as a shock to many fans and friends who had admired their seemingly happy relationship. The divorce was finalized in 2020, with the former couple agreeing to share custody of their minor daughter, True, and divide their assets amicably.
Neither Forest nor Keisha spoke publicly about the reasons for their split, but they remained respectful and cordial towards each other. In 2019, Forest tweeted a birthday message to Keisha, calling her “a wonderful mother and beautiful human being.” Keisha also wished Forest a happy birthday in 2020, writing, “You are a great father and a good friend.”
A Legacy of Love
Keisha’s death has sparked an outpouring of condolences and tributes from her family, friends, and fans. Many have praised her for her warmth, generosity, and talent and expressed their sorrow for her untimely passing. Forest has not yet commented on his ex-wife’s death, but sources say he is devastated and grieving privately.
Keisha is survived by her four children, her mother, her siblings, and her nieces and nephews. She will be remembered as a loving and devoted mother, a talented and passionate artist, and a kind and compassionate soul.
