Cristina Sanz, 36, dies after sudden cardiac arrest

Cristina Sanz, a beloved star of the A&E reality series "Born This Way," has died at age 36. Her family announced that she died on Monday, July 6, 2026, after suffering a sudden cardiac arrest.

According to a statement posted to her Instagram account on Tuesday, July 7, Sanz was at her day program when the medical emergency occurred. She was rushed to a hospital, where doctors were unable to stabilize her heart. Her parents, Mariano and Beatriz, said her death was unexpected and a total shock, but that they were grateful to have been by her side.

Sanz was a central figure on all four seasons of "Born This Way," which aired from 2015 to 2019. The Emmy-winning docuseries followed the lives of young adults with Down syndrome as they pursued careers, relationships, and independence. A&E expressed deep sadness at her passing, extending heartfelt sympathies to her family and all who knew her.

On the show, viewers followed Sanz's career aspirations and her relationship with her then-husband, Angel Callahan. The couple married during the series but later separated in 2021. Beyond the show, Sanz interacted with numerous celebrities, including meeting Alicia Keys and forming a memorable...