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Sophie Nyweide, known for roles with Michelle Williams and Russell Crowe, passed away at 24. She began acting at six and starred in films like Mammoth and Noah. Sophie Nyweide, who once lit up screens alongside Michelle Williams and Russell Crowe, has passed away at just 24 years old.
Her family shared the heartbreaking news through an online obituary, noting that she died on April 14. A cause of death was not disclosed. Born in July 2000 to former actor Shelly Gibso, Sophie grew up between Burlington, Vermont, and New York City.
Her obituary says she “spent most of her brief life" in those places, soaking in their rhythms and cultures. She was only six when she stepped into the world of acting, starring in the title role of Bella. That debut marked the beginning of a brief yet notable filmography, including And Then Came Love, Margot at the Wedding, and a television stint on Law & Order.
In 2009, she played the daughter of Michelle Williams and Gael García Bernal in Mammoth, and later, in 2014, appeared opposite Russell Crowe in Darren Aronofsky’s Noah. “She dreamed (more like demanded!) to be an actor, without ever knowing her mother was an actor, so she did that too with an ease we all marveled about," her obituary recalls. Her family remembered her as an artistic soul with a gentle spirit: “Sophie was a beloved daughter, granddaughter, sister, friend and new aunt," they wrote.
“Creative, athletic and wise beyond her years, Sophie accomplished so much in the time she danced upon earth (literally – she danced as she moved!)." She had a unique joy for movie sets, the obituary revealed: “It was a safe place for her and she relish from the casts and crews who nourished her talent and her well being." An explorer at heart, she was known to absorb customs and even languages of places she visited.
“She was an eager adventurer," the family added. Though her external world sparkled with accomplishments, Sophie faced internal battles few could see. “She was a kind and trusting girl," the family shared.
“She wrote and drew voraciously and much of this art depicts the depth she had and it also represents the pain she suffered. Many of her writings and artwork are roadmaps of her struggles and traumas." Despite a network of support—family, therapists, law enforcement, and friends—the obituary conveys a haunting sorrow: “Those closest to her.
.. are heartbroken their efforts couldn’t save her from her fate.
" In lieu of flowers or gifts, the family has asked that donations be made in Sophie’s name to RAINN, the nation’s largest anti-sexual violence organisation. A memorial service will be announced at a later date..
