“Pose” actress Cecilia Gentili, who was a well-known transgender activist, died on Tuesday, Feb. 6.
She was 52.
Gentili’s death was announced in a statement shared on her Instagram page.
“Our beloved Cecilia Gentili passed away this morning to continue watching over us in spirit,” the statement read. “Please be gentle with each other and love one another with ferocity. We will be sharing more updates about services and what is to come in the following days. At this time, we’re asking for privacy, time, and space to grieve.”
The Post has reached out to reps for Gentili for comment.
Born in Argentina, Gentili first came out in 1984. She received asylum in the United States in 2012. Afterward, she was inspired to help others with similar pasts, causing her to fight for the rights of undocumented immigrants, sex workers, and the LGBTQIA+ community.
Gentili served as the Director of Policy at GMHC, the world’s first and leading provider of HIV/AIDS prevention, care and advocacy from 2016 to 2019.
She then co-founded Transmissions Fest, the first all-trans music festival in New York City, which was held on June 21, 2022.
Proceeds benefitted multiple LGBTQ+ charities.
“We are often included in Pride events, but we’re not centered,” she told Them of the rationale for the event. “And there’s a difference.”
On the critically acclaimed FX series, which ran from 2018 to 2021, Gentili played Miss Orlando, a New York City woman who provided discounted plastic surgery.
Fans immediately reacted to the sad news.
“Our community will never be the same without you, Cecilia,” wrote U.S. Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. Thank you for giving us so much, relentlessly, every single day. You transformed so many lives and shined a light across Jackson Heights, Corona, and beyond.”
Her co-star, Tobago trans model Dominique Jackson, posted a tribute on Tuesday, sharing that she was “deeply saddened” by Gentili’s passing.
“I am deeply saddened by your departure dear sister!,” she wrote. “Even in death you are force to be reckoned with, your legacy one of movement, love and compassion unapologetic and true. I thank you dearly for ALL the work you have done. You sacrificed you boldly telling your truth and living it and for that you have changed and influenced many lives and the world. I LOVE YOU FOREVER BEAUTIFUL STRONG SISTER! REST WELL!”
Drag performer Chiquitita posted video of the pair onstage together, writing, “I will honor your name for the rest of my life. Thank you for everything. Thank you for being a mother to me.”
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