Gloria Steinem, a pioneering feminist activist and writer who championed women's rights for over five decades, died Wednesday at her home in New York City. She was 92.
The news of her passing was announced Thursday on her official Instagram page. Her foundation's social media stated she died peacefully, surrounded by loved ones.
Steinem's activism spanned more than 50 years, focusing on gender equality and reproductive rights. She rose to national prominence in 1963 with her undercover exposé, "A Bunny's Tale," which detailed the exploitation of waitstaff at Playboy clubs. Her work often involved extensive travel, speaking at universities, rallies, and community centers.
Tributes from the Entertainment World
Following the announcement of her death, numerous figures from the entertainment industry shared heartfelt tributes. Actress Reese Witherspoon recalled Steinem's influence on her decision to star in "Legally Blonde," stating that Steinem's words helped her see the character of Elle Woods as an underdog who becomes the hero of her own story. Witherspoon described Steinem as "a warrior for change" who dedicated her life to advocating for equality and freedom for all women.
Barbra Streisand, a longtime admirer, shared a throwback photo and wrote about meeting Steinem in the 1970s. Streisand noted Steinem's advocacy for workplace equality, reproductive rights, and against gender-based discrimination, praising her intelligence, determination, wit, empathy, and grace. Streisand highlighted Steinem's legacy of empowering others, quoting her as saying, "When unique voices are united in a common cause, they make history."
Other notable tributes included those from actor Pedro Pascal, who shared throwback photos and expressed a need for her guidance. Actress Julianne Moore, who portrayed Steinem in the 2020 biopic "The Glorias," shared a group photo from the film's set and reflected on how studying Steinem provided a "template for how I wanted to behave," emphasizing her honesty, tolerance, and insistence on humanism.
Jessica Alba praised Steinem as "a true pioneer on multiple fronts" for her courage in advocating for equity and equality. Paris Hilton described Steinem as "a true trailblazer" and expressed gratitude for having shared a moment with her at the NYSE Closing Bell for International Women's Day. Madonna referred to Steinem as "The O.G. Baddie!" and thanked her for opening doors. Kerry Washington stated that Steinem "changed the way generations of women understood their own power."
A Life Dedicated to Activism
Steinem's public image was often characterized by her streaked hair, parted down the middle, and her signature aviator glasses. Her foundation announced that her nearly century on earth was "years well-lived" and that she continued working for equality until her final days. The announcement also noted Steinem's ability to make others feel seen and heard, her independent spirit, curiosity, and sense of humor.
In lieu of flowers, the family requested that donations be made to Gloria's Foundation to honor her memory.