Ann Hornaday, a highly regarded film critic who spent more than two decades shaping the cultural conversation at The Washington Post, died Sunday at her home in Baltimore. She was 66.
Hornaday passed away following a battle with glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer. Her death marks the end of a distinguished career that established her as one of the most influential voices in American film criticism.
A Defining Voice at The Washington Post
Hornaday joined The Washington Post in 2002, bringing with her a sharp analytical style and a deep knowledge of cinema history. She remained with the publication until her departure in 2025, a tenure that spanned significant shifts in the film industry and critical discourse.
During her time at the Post, she produced hundreds of reviews, profiles, and essays. Her coverage included in-depth analyses of major films such as “The Hurt Locker,” “Jaws,” and “Oppenheimer.” Her work was known for its accessibility and warmth, qualities that resonated with a broad readership.
Washington Post Executive Editor Matt Murray highlighted her unique impact on the paper’s culture. “For many years, Post readers were blessed by Ann’s informed, insightful, warm, accessible, and totally unique voice,” Murray said in a statement. “Reading her work was like talking with a close if much more knowledgeable friend.”
Recognition and Literary Contributions
Hornaday’s critical acumen was recognized early in her career. In 2008, she was named a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize in Criticism. Her submission package included her review of the film “There Will Be Blood,” among other works, showcasing her ability to connect specific cinematic details to broader cultural themes.
Beyond her newspaper work, Hornaday was an author. She wrote “Talking Pictures,” a guide designed to help readers understand the language of film. Prior to her death, she was also working on a book focused on the production of the classic political thriller “All the President’s Men.”
Her path to the Post was not linear. Before establishing herself as a critic, she worked as a freelance writer in New York, contributing to outlets including The New York Times and Premiere magazine. She also served as a personal assistant to Gloria Steinem at Ms. Magazine for two years. Her journalistic career included stints as a film critic for the Baltimore Sun and the Austin American-Statesman.
Early Life and Personal Legacy
Ann Mills Hornaday was born on March 9, 1960, in Iowa City. She was adopted by William R. Hornaday Jr. and his wife, Mary Mills, and grew up in Des Moines, Iowa. She attended Smith College, graduating in 1982 with a degree in government.
Outside of her professional achievements, Hornaday was an active member of her community in Baltimore. She was a parishioner and Sunday school teacher at her local church.
She is survived by her husband of 26 years, Dennis Greenia. Her family also includes their daughter, Victoria Greenia, and Greenia’s stepdaughter, Leila Greenia. Her brother, William Hornaday III, also survives her.
Source: Variety
