Jill Marie Jones In 2021: What Happened After Delilah?

Chelsey Witting 02 May 2025

Is it true that a cast member from the beloved sitcom "Girlfriends" passed away? The answer, sadly, is yes. While the show itself provided countless laughs and moments of relatability, the real world has brought its share of sorrow, particularly with the loss of a talented actress who graced our screens.

The enduring popularity of "Girlfriends," which premiered on September 11, 2000, created by Mara Brock Akil, is a testament to its ability to resonate with audiences. The series introduced us to Joan, Maya, Lynn, and Toni, four successful black women navigating the complexities of life, love, and careers. Its been over two decades since "Girlfriends" first debuted on UPN, and its impact continues to be felt, with many of its cast members still active in the entertainment industry. The show's longevity and continued relevance are evident in the ongoing interest in its stars and storylines.

The question of "Which girlfriends' cast member dies?" often surfaces in discussions about the show, and it invariably brings to mind the profound impact of Golden Brooks on her audience and peers. Brooks, who played Maya Wilkes, was a central figure throughout the series, embodying the struggles and triumphs of a young woman as she navigated life and relationships. While her passing is a significant loss, it also serves as a reminder of the importance of celebrating the lives and contributions of those we cherish.

Rumors can swirl around any popular show, and "Girlfriends" was no exception. There was a persistent rumor that Toni Childs, another key character, died in the series. However, this was untrue. The character's departure, though appearing abrupt to some, was what actress Jill Marie Jones wanted for Toni's exit. Jones's exit after six seasons was a pivotal moment in the show's run.

The core cast of "Girlfriends," including Tracee Ellis Ross, Jill Marie Jones, Reggie Hayes, Persia White, and Golden Brooks, brought the show to life. The series, with nearly 300 episodes, introduced a large, sprawling cast, but the core group remained central. For many fans, the bond between these characters mirrored the relationships in their own lives, making the show even more relatable.

Speaking of the cast's current endeavors, after her run on "Girlfriends", Jill Marie Jones played the role of amanda. In 2021, Jones was cast in the Oprah Winfrey Network legal drama series "Delilah," created by Craig Wright. Though the show was cancelled after a single season, it was a testament to Jones's continued appeal. The show's cancellation, while disappointing, doesn't diminish the talent and dedication of the actors involved.

Meanwhile, other cast members are keeping busy. With the internet buzzing about a possible "Girlfriends" revival, fans are eagerly checking in on what the cast is doing now. Each member of the main cast has expressed a willingness to participate in a reboot, seeing it as a gift to their fans. The continued interest in a revival highlights the enduring love for the show and its characters. The idea of a reboot stirs nostalgia and anticipation.

The show, which centers on a group of best friends navigating life, love, and careers, has resonated with audiences for years. In September 2020, all eight seasons of "Girlfriends" became available to stream on Netflix. Longtime fans rejoiced, while a new audience discovered the brilliance of the series. The streaming availability on Netflix exposed the show to a new generation of viewers, introducing them to the humor, drama, and relatable experiences that made "Girlfriends" a cultural touchstone.

Let's celebrate the cast members' contributions. It's a reminder of their enduring impact on television. The dedication of the cast and crew created a show that continues to resonate with viewers.

In a different vein, it's worth noting the importance of remembering the contributions of other actors. For example, Jay Thomas, who was also a part of the entertainment industry, sadly died of throat cancer in August 2017 at the age of 69. His work, too, leaves a lasting impact on those who enjoyed his performances.

Name	Golden Brooks
Born	December 1, 1970 (age 53)
Nationality	American
Occupation	Actress
Known for	Maya Wilkes in "Girlfriends"
Years Active	1993present
Notable Roles	Maya Wilkes in "Girlfriends", "Beauty Shop", "I'm Gonna Git You Sucka"
Link to Reference	Wikipedia