Actress Jennifer Grey announced on Instagram that her mother, actress and activist Jo Wilder, passed away on July 4, 2026, at age 94.
Wilder had been diagnosed with lung cancer just one week prior.
Grey shared a heartfelt tribute online, featuring photographs from her mother's life, from childhood to recent celebrations. She praised Wilder's decision to face her final days with grace.
"My mother, Jo Wilder, passed away on July 4th at 94 — by her own choosing, on her own terms, exactly as she lived," Grey wrote.
"True to who she was, she chose grace over fear, understanding that leaving this world with dignity is an honor, not a tragedy."
A Life of Art and Activism
Wilder began her career as a promising young actress on the New York stage.
She appeared in 1960s television shows such as "The Defenders," "The Nurses" and "The Detectives," as well as theatrical productions of "She Loves Me" and "The Merchant of Venice."
Grey noted that her mother often said she never fully answered that calling because she chose to become a mother instead.
"If she'd chosen ambition over my brother and me, we never would have had the mother we had," Grey stated.
Beyond acting, Wilder managed a store called Wilder Place on Melrose Avenue in Los Angeles and was deeply involved in social causes.
Grey described her as a lifelong activist, "fiercely attuned to right and wrong."
Grey concluded her post with gratitude: "She was brave and deep. I love you, Mom.
Thank you for showing me how to do it all, even this, with grace."
Outpouring of Support
Many entertainment figures offered condolences, including Debra Messing, Julianne Moore, Abby Lee Miller, and Erika Eleniak. Tracy Pollan shared a personal message, recalling Wilder's warmth and guidance.
Lea Thompson called Wilder "the best," and Holly Robinson Peete sent love.
Grey had previously shared updates about her mother, including a Mother's Day post in 2023 and a birthday celebration in 2024.
Wilder is survived by her daughter Jennifer Grey and son James Grey, whom she shared with former husband, actor Joel Grey.
