Scott McPherson, a renowned playwright and accomplished actor, was one of the first openly gay, HIV-positive American artists. Born in 1959 in Columbus, Ohio, McPherson grew up in a devout Roman Catholic home with seven siblings. He developed a great love for literature at a young age and began acting in high school. He attended Ohio University, where he majored in theater and dance, and his early one-act play "Til the Fat Lady Sings" was first produced at the university.
After moving to Chicago in 1981, McPherson was cast regularly in local theatrical productions, commercials, and industrial films. He also performed in various stage productions, including "The Shrew," "Butler County," "Gentrification," "Expectations," "The House of Blue Leaves," and "The Normal Heart." Despite his failing health and the recent death of his lover, Daniel Sotomayor, McPherson completed two commissioned screenplays and was working on a new play before his death.
McPherson's life was deeply influenced by his experiences with AIDS, which he wrote about eloquently in his work. His play "Marvin's Room" is widely regarded as one of Chicago's most vital artistic and creative forces, and it was later adapted into a film. McPherson's writing was also influenced by his childhood recollections of helping care for sick and dying family members, as well as his experiences with AIDS.
Scott McPherson died of AIDS complications on November 7, 1992, at the age of 33, surrounded by his loved ones. His last wish was to live "at least as long as Jesus," and he died just a few days after his 33rd birthday.
