Francine Beppu – Francine “Naoko” Beppu, who starred on season 2 of The Real L Word, died at 43 on Feb. 17 by suicide, according to the Honolulu Medical Examiner. Toxicology testing found amphetamine and alcohol in her system.
Francine “Naoko” Beppu’s death became part of the public record this week after a medical examiner’s findings were shared. She died at age 43 on February 17, with the Honolulu Medical Examiner concluding her death was by suicide, details that were published by TMZ on Tuesday, June 16.
The examiner’s office also conducted toxicology testing. That testing indicated “the presence of amphetamine and alcohol” in her system when she died.
Beppu had been known to many as a cast member on season 2 of Showtime’s The Real L Word in 2011. She was confirmed dead a few days later by a spokesperson for her family. In a statement obtained by People. the family said: “It is with a heavy heart that we share the passing of our beloved Francine ‘Naoko’ Beppu. ” adding that “the outpouring of care and concern from her friends and colleagues is a testament to the tremendous impact she had on everyone around her.”.
The family continued. “We are deeply grateful to know how cherished she was and how brightly she will continue to shine through all who knew her.” They also asked for privacy as they “navigated this unimaginable loss and honor her memory. ” while thanking people for “the many gestures of love for Francine.”.
Even beyond the show’s spotlight, Beppu’s public life included activism. She served as a chairperson for the Hawai’i LGBT Legacy Foundation. an organization described on its website as focused on “empowering individuals and communities through education. cultural enrichment and advocacy … to create a world where MVPFAFF/LGBTQIA individuals can thrive. free from discrimination and prejudice.”.
During a 2022 interview for The Hawai’i Herald, Beppu spoke about coming out, telling the outlet, “There were some tears but at the end of the day, my mom wants what’s best for me.” She added, “My parents are great. They’ve been very accepting. I’m really lucky to have them.”
Her time on The Real L Word was brief but memorable. The series was a spin-off of Showtime’s The L Word. which ran from 2004 to 2009 and followed a group of lesbian and bisexual women living in West Hollywood. California. The Real L Word later explored more characters—including Beppu—across Los Angeles and New York City. Beppu appeared for one season. alongside her then-girlfriend Claire Moseley. as cameras filmed her coming out as a lesbian to her mom.
Her death has also sparked renewed attention to mental health resources. If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available by calling or texting 988 or chatting at 988lifeline.org.
Francine Beppu Naoko Beppu The Real L Word Showtime Honolulu Medical Examiner cause of death suicide amphetamine alcohol LGBTQ+ advocacy Hawai’i LGBT Legacy Foundation