Francine Beppu was a media personality and business leader best known for her appearance on Showtime’s reality series The Real L Word.
Born and raised in Honolulu, Hawaii, Francine built a career that spanned television, media strategy, and LGBTQ+ advocacy.
Before her passing, she served as Vice President of Integrated Marketing and Network Strategy at NMG Network, where she helped develop and launch content channels and digital projects reaching audiences globally.
In addition to her TV work, Francine was deeply involved in community leadership: she spent years with the Hawaiʻi LGBT Legacy Foundation, including roles on its board and in strategic initiatives supporting Pride and community programs.
She also founded BADLIARS COLLECTIVE PBC, an organization focused on building inclusive communities through culture and events, in mid-2025.
Tragically, Beppu died on February 17, 2026, at her home in Honolulu, Hawaii, at the age of 43.
A family spokesperson told TMZ and other outlets that she passed away at home and asked for privacy as they grieve and prepare ways to celebrate her life.
Francine Beppu was born and raised in Nu‘uanu on the island of O‘ahu, Hawai‘i, into a culturally rich family that influenced her path in media and creativity.
Her mother was Japanese and worked as an actor and singer in Japan during the 1960s, which helped nurture Francine’s early love for performance, storytelling, and television culture.
Her father was Sansei (third-generation Japanese American), giving her a strong tie to both Hawaiian and Japanese heritage.
Growing up in a household with performers and cultural influences, Francine often spoke about how her family’s roots and experiences shaped her worldview and supported her ambitions.
Though specific details about her parents’ professions beyond her mother’s artistic background have not been extensively reported, Francine credited her family’s encouragement for helping her pursue higher education.
In statements released after her passing, Francine Beppu’s family expressed profound grief, describing her death as an “unimaginable loss.”
They also shared gratitude for the love and support she received throughout her life and asked for privacy as they mourn.
Furthermore, they have indicated that plans for a celebration of her life will be announced when they are ready.
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