Andrea Gibson, a widely respected spoken word poet and prominent LGBTQ+ voice, has died at the age of 48 following a long battle with ovarian cancer. Known for their emotionally powerful performances and work that explored identity, love, and healing, Gibson passed away at home in Boulder, Colorado, on July 14, surrounded by close friends and loved ones.
Gibson, who used they/them pronouns, rose to national attention in the early 2000s through the spoken word scene and quickly became one of the most recognized poets in that space. Their poems often dealt with deeply personal themes, including mental health, gender identity, trauma, and resilience. Many fans credited Gibson’s work for helping them through difficult times.
Their poetry wasn’t just about performance—it was about connection. Through live readings, books, and social media, Gibson created a sense of community for those who often felt unseen or unheard.
A Career That Gave Voice to Vulnerability, Courage, and Love
Originally from Calais, Maine, Andrea Gibson moved to Colorado in the late 1990s and began performing poetry in local cafes and on open mic stages. They quickly gained recognition for their raw, honest delivery and the way they tackled social and emotional issues head-on.
Over the years, Gibson published several bestselling poetry collections, including The Madness Vase, You Better Be Lightning, and Lord of the Butterflies. Their work was widely praised for its emotional depth and clarity. Gibson also performed on national stages, toured across the country, and became a key figure in both the poetry and LGBTQ+ communities.
In 2021, Gibson publicly shared their diagnosis of ovarian cancer. Despite the difficult news, they remained open with fans about their journey, often using their platform to speak about illness, hope, and acceptance. In late 2023, Gibson revealed that their cancer was no longer considered terminal, and fans celebrated the update. However, in recent months, their health began to decline again.
Gibson chose to spend their final days at home under hospice care, surrounded by the people who meant the most to them. Their death was confirmed on July 15 through a statement on their official Instagram page, which described their final moments as peaceful.
Andrea Gibson's impact extended far beyond poetry. Their words helped shape conversations around gender, love, mental health, and grief. They inspired not only readers and poetry fans, but also people searching for understanding in their own lives.
Their work has been taught in classrooms, shared widely online, and recited at weddings, protests, and healing circles. Friends, fans, and fellow artists have taken to social media to express their grief and honor Gibson’s legacy.
