Popular Soap Star Dead at 51

Fans of "All My Children" will be shattered to learn that one of the more popular actresses that was on the show has passed away.

Esta TerBlanche, who was on the soap for more than a decade, passed away.

She was only 51 years old.

Gone Too Soon

TerBlanche's publicist, Lisa Rodrigo, broke the news this week, not offering much insight into how she actually died.

Rodrigo stated, "It's with a heavy heart that my friend and client Esta TerBlanche passed away Thursday of natural causes.

"An autopsy report is pending. I am still processing and in shock.

"Esta was a beautiful soul in and out.

"I was proud to know her and work with her. More to come in the days ahead.

"Thank you for the messages so far. If I haven't gotten to you, I will soon.

"May she RIP with the angels that she is."

According to reports, she may have been dead at home for at least a day before her body was found.

TerBlanche arrived on the scene in 1990 as the host of K-T.V. which ran until 1995.

She also appeared in the TV series "Egoli: Place of Gold" in 1991.

In 1995, she appeared in "The Syndicate" and landed a role on "Spin City" in 1997.

That was the same year that she got her big break, landing the role of Gillian Andrassy on "All My Children."

She appeared in 110 episodes of the soap from 1997 to 2011, with only one more role in a short film in 2013 after having left "All My Children."

TerBlanche recently expressed interest in getting back into TV, even mentioning a possible return to "All My Children."

It is so sad that someone with such a promising future has been taken from us at such a young age.

Rest in peace, Esta… your fans will miss you.