Notable Deaths in 2026

Gloria Steinem, the journalist, activist and author who helped define the women’s liberation movement, died on Sept. 2, 2026, at the age of 92. CBS News includes her among the notable figures who died this year, in a gallery about people remembered for their innovation, creativity and humanity.

Steinem co-founded Ms. magazine, described in the article as the first major publication owned, run and written by women. The magazine promoted equal rights and drew attention to inclusion, media representation and social justice issues affecting women and girls.

As a journalist, Steinem challenged the idea that women’s issues concerned only women. She advocated for women’s voices in politics, including voting rights and female candidates for office. In a 2023 interview with “Sunday Morning,” she explained why feminism had seemed threatening to some people as the movement grew: “One, because they didn’t understand it, and two, because they did understand it!”

Steinem was born in Toledo, Ohio, and spent part of her childhood moving with her family. After her parents separated and divorced, she cared for her mother, who had a mental illness. Her journalism career began in New York, where she contributed to publications including The New York Times and Esquire.

Her 1963 undercover investigation for Show magazine, in which she worked as a Playboy Bunny, exposed sexual harassment and demanding conditions for female employees. She later helped found New York Magazine. In 1971, its publisher allowed a sample issue of Ms. to appear inside the magazine, and it sold out. The first full issue reached newsstands on July 1, 1972, featuring Wonder Woman on its cover and a petition from women demanding safe and legal abortion.

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One, because they didn’t understand it, and two, because they did understand it!