The entertainment world is mourning the passing of Isabelle Tate, a rising star from 9-1-1: Nashville. News of her death emerged on Thursday, October 23. The young actress was 23 years old.
Her agency, McCray, confirmed the news via an Instagram Story. Tate passed away peacefully on October 19.
The agency stated that Isabelle "Izzy" Tate suffered from a rare form of Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT). Her family has requested privacy during this difficult time.
Tate had recently returned to acting, featuring in the first episode of 9-1-1: Nashville. This episode was filmed in June and first aired on October 6.
Beyond her acting career, Tate was known for her love of volunteering, particularly with animals. Her obituary highlighted her compassionate nature.
"Her idea of a fun outing was visiting an animal shelter and dishing out lots of love," her obituary read. She also cherished time with family and friends, described as "always the life of the party."
Isabelle Tate’s death has brought increased attention to Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease. Country music icon Alan Jackson also lives with this condition.
The Charcot-Marie-Tooth Association, a non-profit organization, describes CMT as a rare, multisystemic disease. It causes progressive, lifelong symptoms. These include muscle weakness and atrophy in the arms and legs, sensory loss, and other complications.
Symptoms often lead to difficulties with balance, walking, and using one’s hands. Daily activities can become challenging. Diagnosing CMT can be complex due to its overlap with other conditions.
The diagnostic process typically involves a full clinical evaluation and nerve conduction studies. Genetic testing is also often part of the process.
According to the Mayo Clinic, CMT is caused by genetic changes that affect the nerves. These nerves are located in the feet, legs, hands, and arms.
These genetic alterations are commonly passed down through families. However, new genetic changes can sometimes occur even without a family history of the disease.
Given its hereditary nature, the Mayo Clinic indicates there is no way to prevent Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease. Genetic testing can offer valuable information for family planning for individuals living with the condition.
In December 2022, Tate openly discussed her experience with the disease on social media. She shared a candid post on Instagram.
"When I was 13, I was diagnosed with a progressive neuromuscular disease that weakens the muscles in my legs over time," Tate recalled. She emphasized acceptance of her condition.
She continued, "I have accepted that if I want to live my life to the fullest, sometimes I need to use a wheelchair." Tate expressed a powerful message of resilience.
"I can’t change it, so I choose to embrace it and not let it define me," she wrote. "This has really changed my outlook on life and if anything I’ve learned from it, is to appreciate the little things that are easily taken for granted.”
Country singer Alan Jackson first revealed his CMT diagnosis on the Today show in 2021. He continued performing for years after his diagnosis.
Jackson announced his retirement from touring in May 2025. He has one final show scheduled for 2026 in Nashville.
"I have this neuropathy and neurological disease," Jackson explained to Jenna Bush Hager in 2021. "It’s genetic, I inherited it from my daddy."
He noted there is no cure, and it has affected him for years. "And it’s getting more and more obvious," Jackson added.
"I know I’m staggering around on stage. And now I’m having a little trouble with my balance, even in front of the microphone, so I just feel very uncomfortable."