The Real L Word’ Star Francine Beppu Passes Away in Hawaii at Age 43

​Friends, relatives, and fans are mourning the tragic loss of American reality TV personality and actress Francine Beppu. The star, best recognized for her time on The Real L Word, passed away at 43 years old on Tuesday, February 17, 2026.

​TMZ reported that Beppu was discovered dead in her Honolulu residence. While her family has verified her passing through a public statement, they have not yet disclosed a cause of death.

​In a heartfelt message, her relatives expressed profound grief over losing their “beloved Francine ‘Naoko’ Beppu.” They noted that the massive wave of support from peers and friends highlights the incredible influence she had on others, adding their gratitude for the love shown to her and stating her spirit will live on through those she touched.

​Beppu became an international fan favorite during her stint on the hit Showtime series. Running for three seasons, the unscripted show documented the lives, careers, and romances of a group of queer women residing in Los Angeles.

​Outside of reality television, she built a successful corporate resume. Beppu held professional positions at Viacom and Sony Electronics, notably playing a crucial role in the creation of Logo, the pioneering LGBTQ+ television network.

​Tributes from Fans

The internet has been filled with heartfelt messages and prayers from devastated supporters offering their sympathies to her loved ones:

​Anita Jordan, Roman Rodriguez, and Valeria VanLandschoot offered prayers for her soul to rest in peace and power, with VanLandschoot lamenting the tragedy of losing people so young.

​Latasha Chaney honored her transition from a “beautiful on screen” presence to a “beautiful star.”

​Græ Zee sent deep, straightforward condolences to her grieving family.