Gloria Steinem, the icon of American feminism, was one of the most prominent critics of American Psycho and even reportedly convinced Leonardo DiCaprio to leave the film. Later, her stepson Christian Bale played the title character

Gloria Steinem, the celebrated author, journalist and feminist activist who became one of the most recognizable voices of the U.S. women’s movement, died at 92 on September 2, 2026. Her foundation said she passed away peacefully at her home in New York City.

Steinem was a staunch critic of Bret Easton Ellis’ 1991 novel American Psycho , which drew widespread controversy for its graphic depictions of violence against women. She also became connected to the story in a deeply ironic way: Steinem later became Christian Bale’s stepmother after marrying his father, David Bale, in September 2000.