Body Positive Influencer Carol Acosta Dies at 27

On social media, we can always use more positivity, especially when it comes to our bodies and how we feel about ourselves, and especially in the Latinx community. That’s why the work of content creators like Afro-Latina Carol Acosta made such an impact. Known to her fans by her Instagram handle Killadamente, Acosta, who was Dominican American, she posted body positive content and encouraged her 6.7 million Instagram followers to celebrate their bodies at every size. This week, her sister Katyan confirmed that Acosta passed away at 27 years old on January 3, 2025. Though her cause of death is officially unknown, her cousin reportedly told The Mirror that she had choked on her food and was taken to the hospital to be treated for what is suspected to be cardiac arrest. However, doctors weren’t able to successfully treat her and died in the hospital, People reported.

“On January 3 our dear Carol better known as Killadamente passed away. The Acosta Gonzalez family shares its pain with everyone who knew her,” her family said in a statement. “At her young age she managed to help thousands of people through her work but on this occasion we unite and ask for your help in making sure she has the farewell she deserves.”

Active on Instagram since 2014, Acosta initially began her career as a lifestyle influencer posting beauty content with make-up and hair tutorials. She was known for her brightly colored wigs and eyeshadow looks, building a loyal following for her skill and relatable humor and personality. Over time, she turned more to fashion content, posting photos of her modeling plus-size clothing, frequently partnering with Fashion Nova to promote their plus-size line of clothing, and advocating for greater inclusivity and representation in fashion. In 2017 she released her song, “Me Amo y No Me Importa,” which translates to “I Love Myself and I Don’t Care.” A mother of two, Reina and Legend, she also documented her pregnancy journey and shared important information about reproductive health to break down barriers in healthcare.

“I love you sister and I will always love you,” Katyan said on Instagram, according to the Daily Mail. “I give thanks to God for giving me a sister like you with your big heart. Rest in peace my sister.”

According to a GoFundMe set up in her honor, her service will be on Jan. 17 and they were able to raise more than $26K before the fundraiser was closed. An official cause of death has not been released and the family is awaiting autopsy results.