Keisha Nash Whitaker, the former wife of renowned actor Forest Whitaker, has tragically passed away at the tender age of 51 after a prolonged and arduous battle with anorexia. The devastating news was confirmed by the couple’s daughter, True Whitaker, aged 25, who took to her Instagram account to pay a heartfelt tribute to her mother. In her post, True described Keisha as “the most beautiful woman in the world,” but did not delve into the specific cause of her mother’s untimely demise.
According to a source close to the family, Keisha Nash Whitaker had been struggling with anorexia for several years. Forest Whitaker, the Academy Award-winning actor, had stood steadfastly by her side during these difficult times. However, their marital journey took an unexpected turn, culminating in a divorce filing by Forest in 2015.
The couple, Forest Whitaker, aged 62, and Keisha Nash Whitaker, originally tied the knot in 1996. Their union resulted in the birth of two daughters, Sonnet, aged 27, and True, aged 25. Despite the challenges they faced, they maintained an amicable relationship post-divorce, emphasizing their mutual respect and commitment to co-parenting their children.
True Whitaker’s emotional farewell on Instagram was filled with love and gratitude. She expressed, “Goodbye mommy. I love you 4ever and beyond,” alongside a poignant photograph of her mother. True continued, “The most beautiful woman in the world… thank you for teaching me every single thing I know. I’ll see you in my dreams and I’ll feel you in my heart.” This heartfelt message from True is a testament to the deep bond between mother and daughter.
Concerns regarding Keisha Nash Whitaker’s health first emerged in 2014 when she was photographed at the 2014 Film Independent Spirit Awards with her husband, displaying a notably thin figure. Reports from RadarOnline.com indicated that during this period, Keisha had shed approximately 35 pounds, equivalent to two and a half stone, over the preceding years. Such extreme weight loss, especially at her age, raised significant health concerns.
Dr. Fred Pescatore, the author of The Hampton’s Diet, commented on the potential health risks associated with Keisha’s drastic weight loss. Dr. Pescatore, who had not treated Keisha personally, cautioned that she was at risk of premature aging of her heart and bones due to her extreme weight fluctuations. He also highlighted the toll it takes on one’s metabolism and the potential for it to lead to starvation and reliance on pills to maintain such low body weight.
Keisha Nash Whitaker was not only recognized for her role as a model and actress but also as an entrepreneur. She ventured into the fashion industry, establishing her children’s clothing line and a cosmetics brand called Kissable Couture. In the last year of her life, Keisha appeared to grow increasingly frail, prompting concern among those close to her.
As her health deteriorated, Keisha limited her public appearances and spent extended periods in the hospital. She even hired a driver for transportation when venturing outside, reflecting the gravity of her health condition. Despite their divorce, Forest Whitaker continued to hold Keisha in high regard, and her passing has deeply affected him.
This devastating loss has undoubtedly left a void in Forest Whitaker’s life, who shared two decades of marriage and the upbringing of their children with Keisha. Their union, which began in a picturesque Jamaican wedding in 1996, ultimately ended with a divorce filing by Forest in 2018, citing irreconcilable differences.
The couple’s love story was marked by shared moments of joy and success, with both Forest and Keisha achieving acclaim in their respective careers. They celebrated their achievements and milestones together, including Forest’s Hollywood Walk of Fame ceremony in 2007, where they appeared with their daughters.
Forest Whitaker, a distinguished actor known for his incredible talent and contributions to the entertainment industry, continued to make headlines even after their divorce. In 2022, he was honored with an honorary Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival, a testament to his remarkable career.
The passing of Keisha Nash Whitaker serves as a poignant reminder of the devastating impact of eating disorders and the importance of mental and physical health.
Her untimely departure has left her family and friends grieving, and her memory will undoubtedly be cherished as they navigate the challenging journey ahead. Our thoughts and condolences go out to Forest Whitaker, their children, and all those who were touched by Keisha’s presence in this world. May she rest in peace.
