Obi Ndefo, the actor from Dawson’s Creek, has passed away at the age of 51, according to his family.
The American performer, who featured in the teen drama from 1998 to 2002, died on Wednesday after his “heart failed during his extensive struggle with the eating disorder orthorexia,” his sister Nkem Ndefo shared on Instagram.
“As a family, we share this news to raise awareness regarding the seriousness of orthorexia, and we hope that those grappling with this cruel affliction receive the compassionate support they truly need,” she continued.
Orthorexia is an eating disorder marked by an obsession with consuming high-quality, nutritious foods, which can often result in an extremely limited diet.
Ndefo, who also appeared in Star Trek: Deep Space Nine and Stargate SG-1, had both legs amputated following a hit-and-run collision in Los Angeles in 2019.
Ndefo continued to practice yoga after the loss of his legs. Pic: GoFundMe/Susan Matranga
Katie Holmes, his fellow star from Dawson’s Creek who portrayed Joey Potter, paid homage to Ndefo on Instagram, stating: “He was a joy to work alongside and such a generous soul. I send prayers and my best wishes to his family. Rest in peace.”
Mary-Margaret Humes, who played Dawson Leery’s (James Van Der Beek) mother on the series, expressed: “Finding the right words is challenging. It is difficult for me to accept that you have departed this world, my dear friend.
“You were always, and will forever be, a radiant light. You exemplified pure, unfiltered love and resilience in facing life’s recent trials.
“I will treasure all our exchanges of love and support from each other during the past years. Rest peacefully, sweet warrior.”
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A GoFundMe campaign initiated by Ndefo’s family garnered over $287,000 (£218,385) to assist in covering the costs of prosthetic limbs, necessary surgeries, and making his home wheelchair accessible.
The description on the fundraising page, endorsed by Ndefo’s mother Susan Matranga, elaborated on how the actor was hit while shopping on Beverly Boulevard following a yoga class, struck by a drunk driver in an SUV.
“According to first responders and orthopedic specialists, it is nothing short of a miracle that Obi survived,” it noted, adding that Ndefo still managed to “smile and radiate positivity towards everyone” during his recovery.
Updates on the page highlighted how Ndefo kept on practicing yoga following the amputation of his legs.
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In December 2020, he provided an update himself, stating: “It has been a challenge, but WE ALL FACE UNIQUE OBSTACLES that present opportunities for us to grow stronger.
“I am grateful to everyone who has supported my transition into this new chapter of life and to deepening my commitment to serving as an artist and educator.”
