Gentili died on Tuesday at the age of 52.
Cecilia Gentili, known for her role on Pose and her activism within the transgender community, died on Tuesday at the age of 52. The heartbreaking news was shared on Gentili’s Instagram page, although the cause of her death has not been disclosed to the public.
In a statement posted on her account, her team conveyed the devastating news, stating, "Our beloved Cecilia Gentili passed away this morning to continue watching over us in spirit. Please be gentle with each other and love one another with ferocity."
The statement also promised forthcoming updates about memorial services and future plans, while respectfully asking for privacy during this time of mourning.
Shortly after the announcement, the LGBTQIA+ advocacy group GLAAD also confirmed Gentili’s death on their own Instagram, highlighting her remarkable contributions to the transgender community. Describing her as a pillar in the trans community, GLAAD praised Gentili’s multifaceted roles as an advocate, actress, journalist, and sex worker rights activist.
Gentili’s impact extended beyond the screen and stage. She co-founded Trans Equity Consulting and was instrumental in the Decrim NY coalition, striving for the decriminalization, decarceration and destigmatization of sex work. Her literary achievements included the publication of her memoir, Faltas: Letters to Everyone in My Hometown Who Isn't My Rapist, which received critical acclaim, winning the American Library Association's Stonewall Book Award in 2023.
Having come out in the 1980s, Gentili, who hailed from Argentina, found refuge in the United States in 2012. Her talent and dedication earned her a role on the groundbreaking TV series Pose, where she portrayed Miss Orlando, a character pivotal in providing support and services to transgender women.
Following the news of her death, an outpouring of tributes flooded social media platforms. Co-stars like Dominique Jackson and Angelica Ross expressed their grief and admiration for Gentili’s legacy, remembering her as an activist, trailblazer and cherished friend.
Ross reposted a photo of Gentili to her Instagram Story, writing, "Rest in Peace. I loved seeing you shining in @poseonfx together with our dear sisters."
As the community reels from the loss of such an influential figure, plans for Gentili’s official memorial service are yet to be announced. However, her impact was evident as fans gathered at a church in New York City on Wednesday night to honor her memory and celebrate her remarkable life.
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