American actress Lisa Sheridan has died at the age of 44.
The star, who was best known for role as Kathleen Newberry on CSI: Miami, was found dead at her apartment in New Orleans on Monday.
Her manager Mitch Clem confirmed news of her death to People magazine, stating that the cause of death of is “currently unknown”, but insisted it was not suicide.
He said: “We all loved Lisa very much and are devastated by the loss we all feel.
“We are waiting for a coroner’s report on cause of death. The family has unequivocally confirmed that this is not a suicide. Any suggestion to the contrary is absolutely, 100 percent unfounded.”
As well as CSI: Miami, Lisa also starred in a number of other US shows including Perception, Invasion, Halt, Catch Fire, Without A Trace, Freaky Links and Legacy.
She also starred in films including 2018’s Strange Nature and 2015’s Only God Can.
Donna Erico, who starred alongside Sheridan in Only God Can, paid tribute on Instagram, writing: “I just received news that my dear friend, actress Lisa Sheridan, has passed away. She was found Monday morning. I am sitting here stunned. Lisa and I filmed a movie together 5 years ago and became very close on set and remained close friends after filming ended.
“It’s so rare to find kind, gentle souls like hers in this industry, this city…even this world. Truly one of the most genuinely sweet and gentle people I’ve ever come across in my life. She brought a sweetness and bright energy to any room she happened to walk into…even in her darker times.”
Filmmaker Michael Dunaway also paid tribute to Sheridan, who he said referred to him as her “big brother”.
He wrote: “She was beautiful, obviously, and an immensely talented actor, and a wonderful friend, but more than anything she really did radiate this impossibly bright energy and life.”
He added: “I love you with all my heart, yesterday, today, and forever.”