‘Toddlers And Tiaras’ Star Kailia Posey Dies At 16 By Suicide

The former TV star Kailia Posey has committed suicide at the age of 16, her family reports. Posey was best known for appearing on an episode of Toddlers and Tiaras, and one of her reaction shots became a popular GIF online. She passed away on Monday.

“Although she was an accomplished teenager with a bright future ahead of her, unfortunately in one impetuous moment, she made the rash decision to end her earthly life,” Posey’s family said in a statement. They added that she found success in pageants even after her appearance at the age of five on the show, and “her highly acclaimed talent as a contortionist already led to professional touring job offers, and she had recently been selected to be a cheerleader at her school next fall.

Posey had just attended her high school prom last month and hoped to take aviation classes while also pursuing more opportunities in entertainment.

At the time of her death, her mother Marcey Posey Gatterman wrote online, “I don’t have words or any thoughts. A beautiful girl is gone. Please give us privacy as we mourn the loss of Kailia. My baby forever.”

Her family also created a fund for anyone to donate in Posey’s name, which will go towards helping teens in crisis through the Whatcom Community Foundation.

If you or someone you know is thinking of suicide, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK.