What Happened to Beloved Influencer Baddie Winkle After Her 97th Birthday?
Published: 2025-09-05 19:54:53 | Category: Entertainment
Helen Van Winkle, widely known as Baddie Winkle, has passed away at the age of 97, just weeks after celebrating her birthday. With a vibrant online presence, she became an internet sensation, inspiring millions with her unapologetic attitude and colourful personality.
Last updated: 04 September 2025 (BST)
A Life Well-Lived: Key Takeaways from Baddie Winkle's Journey
- Helen Van Winkle, also known as Baddie Winkle, celebrated her 97th birthday just weeks before her passing.
- Her great-granddaughter shared the news on social media, highlighting her legacy as a source of joy and rebellion.
- Baddie amassed over 3 million followers on Instagram, demonstrating that age is no barrier to self-expression.
- She famously performed with Kacey Musgraves at Coachella in 2019, showcasing her vibrant spirit.
- Her tagline, ‘Stealing yo man Since 1928,’ became iconic, embodying her playful personality.
- Fans and celebrities alike have expressed their condolences and celebrated her unique impact on social media culture.
Who Was Baddie Winkle?
Born Helen Ruth Elam Van Winkle on 18 July 1928, Baddie Winkle became a cultural icon through her bold and colourful online persona. Rising to fame in her 80s, she challenged societal norms about aging and self-expression. With her distinctive platinum blonde wig, bedazzled glasses, and vibrant outfits, she garnered a massive following on Instagram, where she shared her life and adventures with millions.
The Rise to Fame
Baddie Winkle's journey to fame began as a playful response to the conventional perceptions of ageing. After her great-granddaughter encouraged her to share her life on social media, she quickly gained traction. Her posts often featured humorous captions and extravagant outfits, promoting a message of joy and rebellion against the mundane aspects of growing older.
One of her most memorable moments was her performance at Coachella in 2019, where she joined country singer Kacey Musgraves on stage for a rendition of ‘High Horse’. This appearance further cemented her status as a beloved figure in both the online and entertainment worlds.
Legacy and Impact
Baddie Winkle's influence extended far beyond her social media presence. She became a symbol of empowerment for many, proving that age should not dictate one's ability to express oneself. Her catchphrase, ‘Stealing yo man Since 1928,’ encapsulated her fun-loving spirit and ability to connect with audiences across generations.
Fans have taken to social media to express their condolences and share how much she meant to them. Many noted that she brought joy and confidence to their lives, inspiring them to embrace their individuality regardless of age. Celebrities, including Paris Hilton, also paid tribute, recognising her as an iconic figure.
Celebrating Baddie Winkle's Life
The announcement of her passing was shared on her official Instagram account, featuring a heartfelt message from her great-granddaughter. The post celebrated her life and legacy, describing her as a blend of joy, rebellion, and tenderness. The accompanying image showed her smiling, adorned in her signature style, with the poignant caption, ‘This isn’t a goodbye, this is a See ya later my superstar.’
What’s Next for Baddie’s Legacy?
As fans and followers continue to mourn her loss, Baddie Winkle's legacy is likely to endure. Her message of living life to the fullest, regardless of age, will inspire many in the years to come. Her vibrant social media presence serves as a reminder to embrace individuality and authenticity, encouraging others to follow in her footsteps.
Conclusion: A Lasting Influence
Baddie Winkle was more than just an internet personality; she was a beacon of joy and self-acceptance. Her ability to connect with people of all ages and backgrounds has left an indelible mark on social media culture. As we remember her today, we are reminded of the importance of celebrating life and individuality, regardless of one’s age.
The question now is how her followers and the wider community will continue to honour her memory and maintain the spirit she embodied. Will we see more individuals embracing their uniqueness and spreading joy as she did? Only time will tell. #BaddieWinkle #LegacyOfJoy #AgeIsJustANumber
FAQs
What was Baddie Winkle known for?
Baddie Winkle, born Helen Van Winkle, was known for her vibrant online presence, promoting joy and rebellion against societal norms regarding aging. She became an internet sensation with over 3 million followers on Instagram.
How did Baddie Winkle gain fame?
Her fame began in her 80s when she started sharing her life on social media at the encouragement of her great-granddaughter. Her humorous and colourful posts resonated with a wide audience, leading to her rapid rise in popularity.
What was Baddie Winkle's most memorable performance?
One of her most memorable performances was at Coachella in 2019, where she joined Kacey Musgraves on stage to perform ‘High Horse’. This appearance highlighted her vibrant spirit and connection to popular culture.
What impact did Baddie Winkle have on her followers?
Baddie Winkle inspired many of her followers to embrace their individuality and express themselves freely, regardless of age. Her message of joy and self-acceptance resonated deeply with a diverse audience.
How did fans react to Baddie Winkle's passing?
Fans expressed their condolences and shared heartfelt tributes on social media, celebrating her life and the joy she brought to many. Notable figures, including Paris Hilton, also paid tribute to her legacy.
