Playwright and author Bonnie Greer dies aged 77 after a ‘brief illness’

| Senior Live News reporter Published September 16, 2026 1:57pm Updated September 16, 2026 2:18pm Bonnie Greer, the writer of Obama Music and a Question Time panellist, has died after a brief illness (Picture: Getty Images Europe) Bonnie Greer, an American and British playwright and critic, has died at the age of 77, her husband confirmed. Greer, who was awarded an OBE for her works, died after facing a brief illness. The Chicago-born author was best known for penning Hanging by Her Teeth and Obama Music, along with short stories, films, documentaries and musicals. She was a regular face on Newsnight Review and Question Time, and held board roles at iconic British institutions, including the British Museum and the Royal Opera House. Bonnie Greer was born in Chicago before moving to the UK in 1986 (Picture: Getty Images) Her husband, David Hutchins, announced the death today: ‘It is with profound sadness that I announce that my beloved wife, Bonnie Greer, has died aged 77 after a brief illness. ‘Bonnie was an acclaimed playwright, author, critic, cultural and political commentator whose intelligence, courage and distinctive voice made an enduring contribution to British cultural and public life. ‘To me, she was my partner, confidante and inspiration, and I feel profoundly privileged to have shared my life with her. ‘Those closest to Bonnie will remember her warmth, humour, generosity and extraordinary ability to bring people together. ‘At this immensely difficult time, we ask that our family’s privacy be respected. She will be deeply missed.’ Bonnie Greer served on the boards of several iconic British cultural institutions, including the British Museum, the Royal Opera House and the London Film School (Picture: Richard Keith Wolff / Retna Pictures) Greer’s works explored society, power and the portrayal of Black people and women in culture. Women’s rights campaigner Dr Shola Mos-Shogbamimu paid tribute to Greer on social media: ‘An honour to have marched with, shared the stage & known the absolute legend Bonnie Greer. Rest in Power big sis.’ Tributes poured in after fans reacted to the news on X. One wrote: ‘Bonnie Greer was amazing and commanded respect. What a voice for reason. RIP.’ Another said: ‘Bonnie Greer had a quiet authority that cut through noise and blister and it always seemed like she thought before she spoke.’ She was given the Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 2010 by then Prince Charles, and went on to become a fellow of the Royal Society of Literature in London in July 2022. Alongside written works, Greer created Yes for the Royal Opera House, plays like Munda Negra and Jitterbug and several radio plays. Greer was born on the West Side of Chicago, the eldest of seven children. Her eyes were first set on a legal career, but her love of writing, which started when she was nine, took her on a creative path. Greer first visited Scotland as part of the iconic Edinburgh Festival in 1986, and has made the UK her home ever since. Deals of the Day Topman’s new-season collection has arrived and prices start at just £10 An Instagram mattress left me with back pain – this one completely changed my mind Book Val d'Isère, Val Thorens and Tignes for less in Club Med's ski sale Save 25% on red light therapy masks, sauna blankets and sleep gadgets in Bon Charge sale The viral LED face mask with over 350 lights that's currently discounted by £100 The move was inspired by the changing theatre scene in New York City and her wish to escape ‘the shadow of death,’ Greer told The Sunday Times in 2006. Switched On Get plugged into the week’s must-watch shows, unmissable moments, and expert reviews with Metro TV Editor Sabrina Barr.