Influencer Baddie Winkle Dies at Age 97

Helen Vanwinkle, known online as Baddie Winkle, died on Sept. 4. She was 97.

“Yesterday, an era ended and a star ascended,” announced the internet personality’s Instagram account. “My great grandmother Helen Ruth Elam Vanwinkle danced her way to heaven. She was joy, rebellion, and tenderness wrapped in one. The crown is eternal, & her love on many realms will live forever. This isn’t a goodbye, this is a See ya later my superstar. 💔”

The internet sensation — who was loved by over 3 million followers on Instagram — first rose to fame at the age of 85, living a humble life in Waco, Ky., where she looked after a 6-acre farm.

One day in 2014, Vanwinke’s great-granddaughter snapped a photo of her in cutoff jean shorts and a tie-dye shirt and shared it to Instagram. The post blew up, and Vanwinkle became an internet sensation.

As an octogenarian, she was followed on social media by Rihanna and rubbed shoulders with Gwen Stefani. She attended the premiere for Orange Is the New Black and went to the VMAs with singer Miley Cyrus. She even made an appearance at the occasional rave, attending Electric Daisy Carnival, better known as EDC, after she was invited by DJ Dada Life. 

On her Instagram account, Vanwinkle showed off her love for makeup and bold fashion choices, always with a lighthearted wink. Earlier this year, she appeared in an advertisement for IT Cosmetics, making light of her love for both rotary telephones and posting selfies.

On July 21, the star celebrated her 97th birthday, posting a carousel of photos in her pajamas with her Labubus and a gold and pink cake.

In the comments of the announcement, fans shared their tributes to the late internet personality.

“We loved watching her light & energy ✨ she was an inspiration & joy to all her IG community. So thankful she shared herself essence with the world. 🤍 🕊️” one wrote.

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“Rest in peace 🩷 I loved seeing Baddie on my feed. She will be missed,” penned another.

A third commented: “My biggest inspiration & idol 😢 baddie, you surely left an impact in this world!!! Thanks for shining your light so colorful & bright!!! We love you ❤️🧡💛💚💙💜🩷”