A prominent choreographer and on-screen talent, Criscilla Crossland Anderson, known for her work with top performers from Britney Spears to Rihanna, has died at 45 from colon cancer. Her passing was announced on Wednesday, December 3, by friend and photographer Lindsey, who shared heartfelt tributes and photos of Anderson, expressing how deeply she was loved and how honored she felt to walk beside her until the end.
Anderson rose to public attention through collaborations with major stars and by starring in the 2020 Netflix reality series Country Ever After, which followed her life with then-husband Coffey Anderson. She was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer in 2018, declared cancer-free in 2021, but the disease returned in 2022, affecting her lymph nodes. In a November 15 Instagram post, she revealed that her original prognosis seven years earlier had suggested a life expectancy of two years.
She leaves behind four children with Coffey Anderson, whom she married in 2009: their son Ethan and daughters Emmarie and Everleigh, along with Coffey’s daughter Savannah from a previous relationship, whom Criscilla regarded as a bonus daughter.
At the time of her death, Criscilla and Coffey were in the midst of divorce proceedings. They had together appeared in one season of the Netflix series that offered viewers a window into their family life and her ongoing cancer battle.
Criscilla Anderson’s final message to loved ones and supporters conveyed faith, resilience, and a sense of presence beyond life. Her friend shared the note, which spoke of peaceful transition, gratitude, and a belief that she remained connected metaphorically as a guiding presence. She addressed her four children with personal, loving messages: Ethan, she reminded him that motherhood still anchors her; Savannah, she called a special gift she felt God had provided; Emmarie, a dancer who should continue to pursue her faith through every season; and Everleigh, urged to chase her dreams boldly. She affirmed ongoing motherly care from beyond, suggesting moments of warmth or beauty might be signs of her continued presence.
In inscribed words to her friend, she thanked her for capturing her life with such artistry and lighthearted humor, joking about no longer needing Photoshop because Jesus had given her wings.
