R.I.P.

Very sad news.

The 11-year-old Broadway actress whose battle with leukemia has been publicized by the support of stars like , Rihanna and 50 Cent, has passed away.

Shannon Tavarez died yesterday afternoon at Cohen Children’s Medical Center in New Hyde Park, on Long Island. She was best known as playing Nahla on Broadway in The Lion King.

Poor thing. She had such an amazing spirit. She surely will be missed.

Our condolences to her family and friends.

[Image via AP Images.]