If you watch the movie Red, White & Royal Blue all the way through the end credits, you’ll see that the very last frame of the film is a dedication, “For Kristy.”
So, who is Kristy?
Kristy is the late sister of the film’s star Taylor Zakhar Perez and she passed away in early June 2023 at the young age of 44, just three weeks shy of her 45th birthday.
Keep reading to find out more…
Taylor paid tribute to her in an Instagram post on June 4, in which he revealed that Kristy passed away after being diagnosed with aggressive stage four Colorectal cancer, leaving behind three children and a husband.
“Losing my oldest sister has plunged me into a realm of profound sorrow and longing. She was not just a sibling, but a pillar of strength, guidance, and unwavering support in my life. Kristy taught us compassion, patience, and unconditional love. She was the eldest sibling of 8, she watched all of us come into this world, but sadly we had to watch her leave it,” Taylor said. “The void left by her absence is immense, and every day feels like a struggle to navigate a world that seems less vibrant without her. Memories of our shared laughter (she had the most contagious laugh), heartfelt conversations, and cherished moments now bring both solace and aching reminders of what once was.”
Taylor continued, “My heart is heavy with the weight of grief, and I find myself yearning for her presence, for that familiar voice that could soothe my troubled soul. She felt as we felt, no matter what. Yet, amidst the sorrow, I hold onto the love we shared and the indelible impact she had on my life. She will forever remain a beacon of inspiration, guiding me through o the darkness and reminding me to treasure the bonds we forge with those we hold dear.”
“She leaves behind three children, a husband, parents, nine siblings, and an entire community of loving individuals that supported her and her family until the end. It all happened so fast, unexpectedly, and aggressively. Stage Four Colorectal cancer. We tried everything her little body could handle, but in the end the cancer was stronger than anything we threw at her. I would never wish this feeling or these circumstances on anyone, love the ones you’re with and make sure we insist on more than just routine check ups. LISTEN TO YOUR BODY, IT IS USUALLY RIGHT. She was only 44 years young, 3 weeks shy of her 45th with no preexisting conditions. REST IN POWER SIS,” he concluded.
Check out the biggest differences between the Red, White & Royal Blue movie and book.