Cristina Sanz, who starred in the Emmy-winning reality series Born This Way, has died aged 36 after suffering a sudden cardiac arrest.
The reality star’s family announced the news yesterday in a statement on Instagram, revealing that Cristina died on Monday after being rushed to the hospital.
‘It is with a heavy heart that we share the news that our daughter, Cristina, passed away Monday morning,’ the statement read.
‘She suffered a sudden cardiac arrest while at her Day Program and was rushed to the hospital.
‘Despite the doctors’ best efforts to stabilise her heart, she did not survive. We are grateful that we were able to be by her side at the end.
‘Her death was a total shock and unexpected. We will forever treasure the gift of her life. We will all carry in our hearts the wonderful “Cristina moments” that she gave us.’
A&E also paid tribute to the reality star, saying: ‘We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Cristina Sanz, who touched the hearts of many through her time on Born This Way.
‘We extend our heartfelt sympathies to her family and all who had the privilege of knowing and working with her.’
Cristina’s last post on Instagram was in December, when she posted a cast photo from Born This Way, which ran for four seasons between 2015 and 2019.
The acclaimed A&E documentary series followed a group of young adults with Down syndrome as they pursued careers, built friendships, explored relationships and embraced independent living while challenging stereotypes.
The show earned widespread praise during its run, winning three Emmy Awards, including Outstanding Unstructured Reality Program in 2016.
Viewers also saw Cristina marry her then-husband, Angel, during a 2018 episode. TMZ reported the couple later separated in 2021.
When the series came to an end in 2019, executive producer Jonathan Murray reflected on its lasting impact.
‘It’s not often that you get to make television like Born This Way, which has had such a positive impact on the world,’ he said.
‘The show unquestionably changed how society views people with Down syndrome and how people with Down syndrome see themselves.
‘It has shown that no one should have to live with artificial limits placed upon them and that all of us, whatever challenges we face, share many of the same hopes and dreams.’
Cristina appeared in every season of the series and became a fan favourite thanks to her warmth, humour and infectious personality, leaving a lasting impression on viewers around the world.