Supernatural and iZombie star Carrie Anne Fleming died on Thursday February 26 at the age of 51 after a battle with breast cancer, although the news is only becoming public now. Her death was confirmed in a lengthy tribute on Facebook by her Supernatural co-star Jim Beaver, 75 who starred as Bobby Singer in the show while she played his wife, Karen Singer. Remebering their close bond the actor said: "I never thought my heart could break so badly."

Alongside pictures of the pair together he penned: "Carrie Anne Fleming was cast as my wife on Supernatural in my fifth season on the show. I fell for her hard, and I did it mere seconds after meeting her. To my joy and shock, it seems the same thing happened to her. We "met cute," in Hollywood speak...And that, as also happens in the movies, was the beginning of a beautiful friendship...he got me like only one other person really, truly ever has," he wrote.

In a tragic twist Jim's wife Cecily had also died of the same disease in 2004 and he ended by paying tribute to both women.

"I lost Cecily to cancer in 2004. Thursday, I lost Carrie to the same disease. I never thought my heart could break so badly more than once. But it has. But, oh, the two torches I carry -- what bright, bright light they shed."

Carrie Anne first came to prominence with a recurring role on the TV show Viper and a role in Adam Sandler’s Happy Gilmore. In 2005 director Dario Argento cast her in a memorable episode of his show Masters of Horror in which she played disfigured woman with cannibalistic tendencies.

After her stint on Supernatural more recently, she played Candy Baker on iZombie for five season. She also enjoyed a successful career on stage in productions, including Noises Off, Romeo and Juliet, Steel Magnolias, and Fame.

Fans rushed to pay tribute upon learning the news. Writing on Facebook one fan simply commented: "Cancer sucks. May she rest in peace."

Another added: "R.I.P. Carrie Anne Fleming, known for her roles in Supernatural, iZombie and Masters Of Horror: Jenifer, gone too soon at age 51."

A third chimed in: "Oh how very sad to hear the passing of the wonderful Carrie Anne Fleming. She had the kindest and most beautiful of souls. Sleep well Carrie. Enjoy the surf."

Meanwhile a fouth shared: "Rest in peace to the legendary Carrie Anne Fleming, known for her roles in iZombie and Supernatural, who has passed away at 51. She was part of two beloved series and will be remembered for her work and presence on screen."