Acclaimed Playwright and Author Bonnie Greer Passes Away at 77

American-British playwright and novelist Bonnie Greer has died at the age of 77.

Her husband, David Hutchins, confirmed the news, stating: “It is with profound sadness that I announce that my beloved wife, Bonnie Greer, has died aged 77 after a brief illness.”

“Bonnie was an acclaimed playwright, author, critic, cultural and political commentator whose intelligence, courage, and distinctive voice made an enduring contribution to British cultural and public life.”

Hutchins added: “To me, she was my partner, confidante, and inspiration, and I feel profoundly privileged to have shared my life with her. Those closest to Bonnie will remember her warmth, humour, generosity, and extraordinary ability to bring people together.”

Born in Chicago in 1948, Greer relocated to Britain in 1986. She became a well-known figure on British television, notably appearing as a panelist on programmes such as Newsnight and Question Time.

Greer won the Verity Bargate Award for Best Play for “Munda Negra” and was also the author of the novels “Hanging By Her Teeth” (1994) and “Entropy” (2009).

Her other works included the biography “Langston Hughes: The Value Of Contradiction” (2011) and the play “Marilyn And Ella” (2008), which explored the lives of actress Marilyn Monroe and singer Ella Fitzgerald.

Greer was appointed to the British Museum’s board of trustees in 2005 and later served as deputy chairwoman. She also held positions on the boards of the London Film School and the Royal Opera House, and was named a fellow of the Royal Society of Literature in 2022. Additionally, she served as Chancellor of Kingston University in Kingston upon Thames, London.

In 2010, Greer was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in recognition of her services to the arts.

RIP Bonnie Greer 1948 – 2026

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