Eve Ensler (born May 25, 1953) is an American playwright and a prominent feminist activist. She came to wide public attention as the creator of the play The Vagina Monologues, a work that has been performed internationally and inspired activism around gender-based violence.
Early life and education
Ensler was born in New York City. Her family background included a Christian mother and a father of the Jewish faith. She completed her undergraduate studies at Middlebury College, graduating in 1975.
Personal life
In 1978 Ensler married Richard McDermott; the marriage ended in divorce in 1988. She is the adoptive mother of actor Dylan McDermott, having adopted him when he was 18 and she was 26.
Health
In 2010 Ensler publicly stated that she was receiving treatment for uterine cancer. She spoke about her diagnosis and treatment in interviews and writings, linking her personal experience to her broader advocacy for survivors of illness and violence.
Career and influence
Although best known for The Vagina Monologues, Ensler's work spans theatre, nonfiction, and grassroots organizing. Her plays and public projects have sought to give voice to women and girls, to highlight sexual and domestic violence, and to catalyze community responses. The play's success helped launch a network of benefit performances and campaigns intended to raise awareness and funds for related causes.