Nickelodeon cast members attempted to support Kianna Underwood years before her tragic death in a New York City hit-and-run incident.
A former cast member from the iconic Nickelodeon show “All That” has revealed the tragic circumstances surrounding the life of Kianna Underwood, a former child star who recently lost her life in a hit-and-run incident in Brooklyn. Angelique Bates, who appeared in the first two seasons of the show, took to social media in November 2023 to alert fans and fellow cast members about Underwood’s homelessness, urging them to provide assistance.
Bates expressed concern about the challenges Underwood may have faced, stating that the situation warranted more than just fundraising efforts. She emphasized the need for a comprehensive support plan to ensure that those in the entertainment industry receive adequate help during difficult times. Bates remarked that many in the community had a responsibility to care for each other, especially for those like Underwood, who had paved the way in their early careers.
Frustrated by the lack of support for Underwood, Bates highlighted the irony that Nickelodeon, which has recently engaged in revamps and reunions, had failed to address the plight of one of its own former stars. This situation encompasses broader concerns regarding how child actors transition into adult life and the potential isolation they can experience after leaving the limelight.
Tragically, Underwood died following a chaotic hit-and-run incident at around 6:50 a.m. on January 16, 2026, at the intersection of Pitkin Avenue and Mother Gaston Boulevard. Reports indicate she was struck by a black 2021 Ford Explorer SUV while crossing the street in a crosswalk against a red light. The vehicle’s driver initially struck Underwood and subsequently fled the scene. Moments later, another vehicle, described as a black-and-gray sedan, also collided with her body, dragging it for over two blocks before leaving the scene.
Emergency medical services pronounced Underwood dead at the site of the incident. As of now, no arrests have been made in connection with the hit-and-run, prompting an ongoing investigation by local law enforcement agencies.
Kianna Underwood, who grew up in New York City, had a notable acting career beginning in the late 1990s and early 2000s. She made her film debut at the age of six in “The 24 Hour Woman,” starred in the national tour of “Hairspray,” and appeared in seven episodes of “All That.” Those who knew her described her as a talented individual with a bright future ahead, but she faced numerous challenges as she transitioned away from her childhood fame. Friends and community members recall her as a kind and gifted young woman who unfortunately fell on hard times after her early successes.
Bates’s impassioned call for help underscores the responsibility the entertainment industry has to support its former stars in need, especially those who may not have the resources to navigate life’s challenges alone. The tragic loss of Kianna Underwood serves as a reminder of the importance of compassion and community in addressing the complexities often faced by those who have experienced fame at a young age.
