Kianna Underwood, a former child star known for her work on Nickelodeon, died this week in a hit-and-run incident in Brooklyn, New York. She was 33 years old.
The Deputy Commissioner of Public Information confirmed to sources that police responded to a 911 call in the Brownsville neighborhood around 6:49 a.m. on Friday. According to the New York Police Department, Kianna was crossing an intersection when she was struck by a black Ford SUV, and then “subsequently struck by a black and gray sedan.”
The Deputy Commissioner of Public Information stated that she “sustained severe trauma to the head and body,” and “she was pronounced deceased on scene” after emergency medical services arrived. The drivers of both vehicles fled the scene and remain unidentified. The NYPD added:
“There are no arrests, and the investigation remains ongoing by the NYPD Highway District’s Collision Investigation Squad.”
How heartbreaking…
A Familiar Face From Nickelodeon’s Past
Kianna Underwood began her acting career at the age of 7. She gained recognition in 2005 as a cast member on the 10th season of All That. She also lent her voice to Fuchsia Glover on the Nick Jr. show Little Bill. Beyond television, Kianna appeared in films like The 24 Hour Woman and Death of a Dynasty, and spent a year touring nationally with Hairspray as Little Inez.
Recent Struggles and a Plea for Help
In recent years, Kianna reportedly lived a more private life in New York City. She resurfaced in a 2023 social media video, identifying herself as “Kianna Underwood from All That on Nickelodeon.” However, that same year, former All That star Angelique Bates took to Instagram to express concern for Kianna, claiming she was experiencing homelessness in NYC and needed assistance. Bates also accused some co-stars of presenting a false image of unity while selectively offering support:
“She’s one of us, and she needs help, but she’s not getting it … and nobody’s speaking on Kianna Underwood.”
Angelique Bates reacted to the news of Kianna’s death on Friday, writing:
“Y’all have no idea how much this one hurts…Sick to my stomach….So many people failed baby girl. #rip #kiannaunderwood #allthat #nickelodeon”
Kianna Underwood will be deeply missed. Rest in peace.
[Image via All That/Nickelodeon Productions]
