Cristina Sanz, best known for appearing on the Emmy-winning reality series Born This Way, has died at the age of 36 after suffering a sudden cardiac arrest. Her family confirmed the heartbreaking news in a statement shared on Instagram.
According to her loved ones, Sanz experienced a medical emergency while attending her day program. She was immediately taken to a hospital, where doctors worked to stabilize her condition. Despite their efforts, she could not be saved.
Her family described her passing as completely unexpected and said they were grateful to be by her side during her final moments. They remembered Cristina as someone who brought joy to everyone she met and said her cherished memories would remain with them forever.
A&E, the network behind Born This Way, also honored the late reality star in a public statement. The network praised Cristina for touching countless lives through her warmth, optimism and inspiring journey, while extending condolences to her family, friends and former castmates.
Cristina appeared in all four seasons of Born This Way, which aired from 2015 to 2019. The groundbreaking series followed young adults with Down syndrome as they pursued careers, built relationships and embraced independent living. The show earned widespread praise and won three Emmy Awards for its positive representation and storytelling.
Throughout the series, viewers also witnessed Cristina’s personal milestones, including her relationship and wedding to then-husband Angel. According to reports, the couple later separated in 2021.
Cristina Sanz leaves behind a lasting legacy of courage, kindness and inspiration. Her impact on the disability community and reality television will continue to be remembered by fans around the world.