The beloved influencer Baddie Winkle, whose real name was Helen Vanwinkle, died at 97, her family shared on Instagram on September 4.
“Yesterday, an era ended, and a star ascended,” the post read.
(Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images for Dick Clark Productions)“My great grandmother Helen Ruth Elam Vanwinkle danced her way to heaven. She was joy, rebellion, and tenderness wrapped in one. The crown is eternal, & her love on many realms will live forever. This isn’t a goodbye, this is a See ya later my superstar. 💔”
How Baddie Winkle Rose to Fame
Winkle became an internet sensation in 2014 after her great-granddaughter posted a photo of her in cutoff shorts and a tie-dye shirt. At 85, she went viral and quickly became a beloved personality online.
She amassed more than 3 million followers on Instagram and caught the attention of stars like Rihanna and Gwen Stefani.
She attended the Orange Is the New Black premiere, the VMAs with Miley Cyrus, and even partied at Electric Daisy Carnival after being invited by DJ Dada Life.
Speaking to Women’s Health, Helen Vanwinkle shared, “I used to love getting dressed up and going dancing, but after losing my husband in 1983 and my son 16 years later, I couldn’t pull myself out of my grief. For years, I lost connection with others and even with myself.”
A Star With Bold Fashion & Humor
On Instagram, Winkle showcased her love of bold fashion, makeup, and humor, often winking at her age. Earlier this year, she starred in an IT Cosmetics campaign that highlighted her playful personality and flair for selfies.
She also celebrated her 97th birthday in July with a carousel of photos, posing in pajamas with her Labubus and a colorful cake.
Fans & Celebs Share Heartfelt Tributes
News of Winkle’s passing sparked an outpouring of love in the comments section of her announcement.
Paris Hilton wrote: “She was iconic 🥹 sending love 💗”
“We loved watching her light & energy ✨ she was an inspiration & joy to all her IG community. So thankful she shared her essence with the world. 🤍 🕊️” one fan wrote.
“We all have to die, that’s normal. But it’s about how you LIVED & this baddie right here was fabulous up until the end so I know she’s on the other end rejoicing! A legend she was and a legend she will be ❤️🕊️” added another.
A third shared, I dreaded the day, but I’m happy knowing Baddie lived her life as SHE wanted, not limited by society or age “appropriate”. Rest in peace to the iconic Baddie Winkle.✨💖”
Another sweet comment read: “Baddie really took it to the next level and beyond. She was unapologetically herself, and she brought us all so much joy and confidence. We’re gonna miss her so much, but that Baddie spirit is gonna live on forever. Go show them angels how we do it here on earth 💕💕✨✨”
A cause of death for Vanwinkle, whose Instagram bio playfully reads “Stealing yo man since 1928,” was not disclosed.
The beloved influencer, once named by Time magazine as one of “The 30 Most Influential People on the Internet,” first went viral in 2014. She shared photos and videos of herself in bold, quirky outfits — including a tie-dye shirt that read “Will commit sins 4 Chipotle” and quickly became known for her rebellious sense of fun.
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