Flo Anthony, Pioneering Page Six Journalist, Dies at 74

Flo Anthony, a pioneering entertainment journalist recognized as the first Black woman to join the New York Post's entertainment and Page Six departments, passed away on Thursday at the age of 74 following a battle with cancer. Her death was officially confirmed to Variety by Jack Hirsch, who is the biographer of Anthony's husband, former heavyweight boxing champion Michael Spinks. Anthony's career at the New York Post marked a significant milestone, breaking barriers in a prominent media landscape. Her contributions to the Post's entertainment coverage, particularly within the influential Page Six gossip column, established her as a notable figure in celebrity journalism. Page Six, known for its exclusive scoops and celebrity news, became a significant platform during her tenure. Anthony's work involved reporting on the entertainment industry's prominent figures and events, contributing to the public's understanding of Hollywood and celebrity culture. Her role as a journalist at the New York Post, a widely circulated daily newspaper based in New York City, provided her with a broad audience for her reporting. The New York Post, founded in 1801, is one of the oldest continuously published newspapers in the United States. The Page Six section, specifically, is renowned for its celebrity gossip and insider news, often setting the agenda for entertainment news cycles. Anthony's presence in these departments was groundbreaking, opening doors for future journalists from diverse backgrounds. Her career trajectory highlights a period of evolving representation in mainstream media. The confirmation of her death by Jack Hirsch, who is documenting the life of Michael Spinks, underscores the personal connections that often intertwine with public figures. Michael Spinks, a former professional boxer, held the undisputed world heavyweight championship title from 1985 to 1988. Anthony's marriage to Spinks placed her within another sphere of public attention, though her professional identity remained firmly rooted in journalism. Her passing represents the loss of a significant voice in entertainment reporting and a trailblazer for Black women in journalism. The impact of her pioneering work continues to resonate within the industry, serving as an inspiration for many. The specific details of her battle with cancer were not extensively elaborated upon in the initial reports, but the confirmation of her death marks the end of a notable career.