Pithy Film Critic Rex Reed Dies at 87

Film critic and author Rex Reed, renowned for his sharp wit and provocative interviews, died on Tuesday morning at his Manhattan home. He was 87 years old and had been living in his New York apartment since 1970. Reed began his career as a writer for the New York Observer in 1987, continuing his work there until recently, with his final review in 2025.

Earlier in his career, Reed spent over a decade as an arts critic for the New York Daily News and five years with the New York Post. He was noted for his flamboyant persona and his willingness to challenge filmmakers, often taking aim at those he felt were overpraised. His critical style, sometimes described as part of 'New Journalism,' could be both endearing and off-putting to audiences and industry figures alike.

Born in Fort Worth, Texas, in 1938, Reed moved to New York seeking to escape his Southern roots through writing. He also had a brief stint as a jazz singer and worked various jobs before establishing himself in journalism. Beyond film criticism, Reed also penned a novel and wrote liner notes for prominent musical artists, solidifying his diverse career in the arts.