We lost a real one, y’all.
Flo Anthony, the powerhouse journalist who crashed through Page Six’s glass ceiling and kept Hollywood honest for decades, passed away last Thursday, Aug. 6, following a quiet, courageous fight against cancer.
Her death was confirmed by Jack Hirsch, the biographer of her husband, professional boxer Michael Spinks.
She was 74.
The headlines will undoubtedly talk about Ms. Anthony’s historic firsts and rightly so. But anyone who ever shared a laugh with her knows we’re mostly just missing a radiant, irreplaceable force. Beyond her impressive credentials, it was her warm spirit and infectious laughter that truly set her apart. She had a unique ability to connect with people, making them feel valued and heard, even in the fast-paced world of news. Her stories were not only informative but they were also infused with a sense of humor and humanity that connected deeply with readers.
Ms. Anthony’s trailblazing journey in journalism is filled with groundbreaking achievements – she wasn’t just the first woman to work in the New York Post’s sports department; she was also the first Black woman to write for a supermarket tabloid with the National Examiner’s Eye on the Stars.
According to Variety, before diving into journalism, Ms. Anthony had an amazing career as a publicist, representing some of boxing’s biggest names, including legends like Muhammad Ali, Butch Lewis, Larry Holmes and Michael Spinks. In 1985, she made her mark at the New York Post, starting as an agate clerk in the sports section, but it was also where she quickly became known for her engaging coverage of high-profile stories. She had a front-row seat to the whirlwind of celebrity life, covering the marriages and personal lives of celebrities like Alec Baldwin, Kim Basinger, Mike Tyson and Robin Givens. In addition, she acted as a long-time media confidante, informal spokesperson and friend, often representing members of the Jackson family, especially La Toya Jackson, on various television talk shows and news programs — her insider perspectives underscoring the drama and excitement surrounding these public figures. Whether appearing on talk shows or news programs, her insights and background in public relations brought the drama and excitement of these public figures to life, giving viewers a glimpse into the complexities behind the glitz and glamour.
Florence Anthony Spinks (originally named Florence Anthony) was born on March 4, 1952, in Ann Arbor, Michigan. She was a bright and positive figure in her community from a young age. Growing up, she attended local schools from kindergarten to high school, graduating in 1970. Friends and neighbors remember her as someone who was deeply involved in local activities, often spotted at Bethel A.M.E. Church with her family.
She didn’t just blend in; she stood out by joining civic theater groups and her school’s cheerleading squad. After high school, she attended Howard University, where she majored in fine arts before graduating and moving to New York City to pursue careers in acting and writing.
She met and began dating Olympian and boxing champion Michael Spinks in 1987 while working as a publicist. After years of ups and downs, the couple said “I do” on Jan. 6 of this year.
Ms. Anthony regularly appeared on popular programs like Inside Edition, The Insider, and Entertainment Tonight, as well as on major networks such as CNN, MSNBC (now known as MS NOW) and Court TV. Her megawatt personality shone through during her six-season run co-hosting E! Network’s The Gossip Show, where she became a familiar face in celebrity news. Beyond that, she also was a contributor to TV One’s Unsung Hollywood and Life After, and graced the screens of shows hosted by Joan Rivers, Ricki Lake and Rolonda Watts. Additionally, she served as editor-in-chief of Black Elegance and publisher-editor-in-chief of Black Noir magazines. Fast forward to 2025 and she was still in the spotlight, appearing in CNN’s three-part documentary series American Prince: JFK Jr.
Ms. Anthony is survived by her loving husband.
The room was always a little sharper, brighter and better-sourced the second Flo Anthony walked in. And her presence had an uncanny ability to elevate the energy, sparking conversations and ideas that lingered long after she left.
Although the barrier/busting reporter is gone, what she stood for isn’t. Showing up for each other. Telling our stories. Making space. That was her whole thing.
Rest in power, Flo — thank you for the stories, the light and for always allowing us to go with you.
