Andrea Gibson, celebrated spoken word poet and LGBTQ+ activist, passed away on July 14, 2025, at the age of 49. Known for their powerful poetry that touched on identity, love, grief, and justice, Gibson leaves behind a legacy that will echo through generations.
Gibson’s death followed a four-year battle with ovarian cancer, which they faced with unflinching honesty. In their final days, Gibson was surrounded by love at home in Boulder, Colorado—with their wife Megan Falley, friends, and beloved dogs by their side.
Who Was Andrea Gibson?
Andrea Gibson was more than a poet—they were a movement.
Their career took off in the early 2000s, making waves with raw, emotionally charged performances. In 2008, they won the Women of the World Poetry Slam, becoming a voice for the marginalized and a beacon for the LGBTQ+ community.
Gibson authored several bestselling poetry collections, including:
- You Better Be Lightning
- Lord of the Butterflies
- Pole Dancing to Gospel Hymns
Each work explored themes of gender identity, mental health, politics, and the power of vulnerability.
Colorado’s Poet Laureate
In 2023, Gibson was named Colorado’s Poet Laureate, a recognition of both their literary mastery and community impact. They used their platform to host healing-centered writing workshops, encouraging others to use poetry as a form of therapy and resistance.
Legacy on Film: Come See Me in the Good Light
Gibson’s final years were captured in the moving documentary Come See Me in the Good Light, which premiered at Sundance and is set to stream on Apple TV+ this fall. The film follows their cancer journey and relationship with Megan Falley, blending love, poetry, and resilience into a timeless tribute.
Love Letter from the Afterlife: A Poem That’s Gone Viral
Among their last works is Love Letter from the Afterlife, a poem that has gone viral for its spiritual depth and message of enduring love. Lines from the piece are being shared widely on social media, helping fans grieve while celebrating Gibson’s legacy.
Andrea Gibson’s death is a loss not just to poetry, but to humanity. Their work gave language to the unspoken and lit a path for queer people, survivors, and seekers of truth. As their poetry continues to inspire, one thing is clear: Andrea Gibson may be gone, but their voice lives on.