Fierce Voice Silenced: Andrea Gibson Dies at 49 After Battle with Cancer
Boulder, CO – Andrea Gibson, Colorado’s celebrated Poet Laureate and one of America’s most powerful spoken-word voices, passed away on July 14, 2025, at age 49, after a courageous battle with ovarian cancer. Surrounded by their loved ones—including their wife, four ex-girlfriends, and parents—Gibson left an indelible legacy of art, activism, and emotional truth.
A Life Rich in Poetry and Purpose
Born August 13, 1975, in Calais, Maine, Andrea Gibson challenged societal norms through dozens of poetry collections, song-poems, and powerful live performances. A pioneer in spoken-word art, they transformed personal grief into universal connection and became a champion for LGBTQ+ voices. In 2023, Gibson was appointed as Colorado’s Poet Laureate, praised for their fierce conviction and ability to inspire through storytelling and spoken truth.
Art That Cut Deep—Comedy, Politics, Identity
Gibson's poetry often touched on gender fluidity, mental health, politics, and personal identity. Iconic pieces like “Swing Set” and “Andrew” captured the struggles and triumphs of queer life, while later works such as “MAGA Hat in the Chemo Room” reflected both political depth and human compassion. Their 2025 documentary, Come See Me in the Good Light, chronicled Gibson's experience with terminal illness, offering an intimate and uplifting look at life, loss, and resilience.
A Heartfelt Farewell
Andrea Gibson peacefully passed away at their Boulder home early on July 14, surrounded by chosen family. Tributes from fans, poets, and public figures flooded social media within hours. Many described Gibson as “brave, tender, uncompromising,” and celebrated their gift for helping others feel seen and understood through deeply emotional work.
Legacy That Resonates
Gibson wasn’t just a poet—they were a movement. A former Women of the World Poetry Slam Champion and a beloved performer across the U.S. and abroad, they cultivated safe, communal spaces for radical empathy and artistic freedom. Their live performances—often blending spoken word with acoustic music—attracted fans across generations and backgrounds.
Facing Mortality with Grace
Diagnosed in 2021 with advanced ovarian cancer, Gibson used the final years of their life to reimagine what legacy means. They published vulnerable essays, created a video diary, and continued performing when possible. To Gibson, cancer didn’t end the poetry—it became a deeper reason to write it. They taught fans how to live in the moment, with intention and courage.
Colorado's Poet Laureate: A Symbol of Inclusion
During their tenure as Poet Laureate, Gibson focused on broadening access to poetry, especially among underrepresented communities. They launched workshops, mentored young poets, and emphasized that poetry belongs to everyone. Their tenure is remembered as one of bold inclusion, creative expansion, and emotional honesty.
Why Their Voice Mattered
Andrea Gibson redefined what it means to be a poet in modern America. They didn’t hide from pain or politics—they used them as fuel. Their art made space for healing, protest, love, and reflection. For many in the LGBTQ+ and artistic communities, Gibson was not only a voice—but a lifeline.
What Comes Next?
As Colorado and the national literary world mourn this profound loss, conversations are beginning about how best to honor Gibson’s legacy. Ideas include a poetry foundation in their name, annual readings, scholarships for LGBTQ+ writers, and potential posthumous publications of their final work.
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