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Charlbi Dean KriekSouth African actress and model
Date of Birth: 05.02.1990
Country:  South Africa |
Content:
Early Life and Modeling Career
Charlbi Dean Kriekwas born on February 5, 1990, in Cape Town, South Africa, to parents Johan and Joanne Kriek (née Müller). From a young age, she aspired to become an actress, but the path to becoming an entertainer in South Africa typically lay through the modeling industry. As a result, Kriek began her career at the age of six in television commercials and catalog appearances.
At age 12, she signed with Alfa Model Management and transitioned to homeschooling after attending several schools. Despite her global travels and stints in New York, Tokyo, and London, Kriek remained dedicated to her acting dream and attended the Waterfront Theatre School in her hometown.
Kriek's mother was a "reluctant model," and her brother became involved in the fashion industry through Ice Model Management Cape Town.
Acting Career
Kriek made her film debut in 2010's "Spud," based on John Howard van der Ruit's novel. Subsequently, she appeared in the short horror film "Ghost Fields" and the psychological thriller "Pacific Standard Time." Kriek received critical acclaim for her performance in the television series "Black Lightning" in 2018 and "Interview with God."
Supermodel Career
Kriek graced the pages of esteemed fashion magazines such as Vogue, Elle, and Harper's Bazaar. She modeled for prestigious brands including Gucci, United Colors of Benetton, and Ralph Lauren, and achieved a childhood dream by collaborating with Victoria's Secret.
In 2008, she and fellow model Ashton Schnehage were involved in a severe car accident that resulted in multiple injuries. The scars from her surgery became a defining part of Kriek's identity, which she proudly showcased at the Ami Alexandre Mattiussi fashion show.
Personal Life
In 2022, Kriek became engaged to fellow model Luke Volker. Their social media accounts were filled with affectionate photos that exuded love and joy. They shared a pet Japanese Chin named Kaneki.
Tragic Death
On August 29, 2022, Kriek passed away suddenly in a New York hospital at the young age of 32. The cause of death was cited as "an unexpected sudden illness." Her devastated mother and brother confirmed the news on social media.
Kriek's death was particularly tragic as it came just short of the theatrical release of "Triangle of Sadness," which had won the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival earlier in the year. The film was scheduled to premiere in Denmark and France in September 2022 and in the United States, Sweden, Germany, and the United Kingdom in October 2022.
