The Life and Career of Anita Bryant

Anita Bryant, once celebrated as a talented singer and glamorous beauty queen, passed away on December 16 at her home in Edmond, Oklahoma, at the age of 84, following a courageous battle with cancer, as confirmed by her son, William Green.

Bryant first captured national attention at the tender age of 18 when she won the Miss Oklahoma beauty title and became the second runner-up in the Miss America pageant in 1958. This victory catalyzed a dazzling career in the entertainment industry, leading her to become a household name through her captivating commercials for the Florida Citrus Commission. Her jingle, "Come to the Florida Sunshine Tree," and the catchy tagline, "Breakfast without orange juice is like a day without sunshine," endeared her to audiences, as she appeared in colorful outfits promoting the wonders of vitamin C.

Activism and Backlash

However, Bryant's fame took a sharp turn in the late 1970s when she became embroiled in a contentious dispute over gay rights in Florida. In early 1977, Dade County, which encompasses Miami, passed an ordinance to prohibit discrimination against homosexuals. Protesting vehemently against this change, Bryant labeled homosexuality "an abomination" and established the anti-gay organization Save Our Children. This group played a pivotal role in promoting the modern religious right's narrative that equated LGBTQ+ rights with threats to family values and innocent children.

In the backlash that followed her activism, Bryant encountered professional consequences. Just months after her outspoken opposition, a potential television project was canceled due to the growing controversy surrounding her political views, marking the beginning of a notable blacklisting in her career.

Cultural Impact and Infamy

One of the most infamous moments in Bryant’s life occurred in October 1977 when a protester famously smashed a banana cream pie into her face during a press conference. Although she humorously remarked, "At least it was a fruit pie," many interpreted her response as overshadowed by the larger issues of discrimination and intolerance that her actions represented. This incident became a significant cultural moment, showcasing the backlash against her views while amplifying her notoriety.

Personal Struggles and Later Life

Born Anita Jane Bryant on March 25, 1940, in Barnsdall, Oklahoma, she began her journey in the arts by singing in church and participating in local events. Her talent was recognized early on, and she made a name for herself by appearing on various popular television shows in the late 1950s and early 60s, including "The Ed Sullivan Show" and "The Tonight Show," where she had Top 40 hits such as "Paper Roses" and "Wonderland by Night."

Through her life, Bryant experienced personal challenges, including the end of her marriage to her manager, Robert Einar Green, which alienated some of her conservative Christian supporters. She later spoke candidly about her struggles with mental health, having contemplated suicide during her tumultuous years after the peak of her career.

Legacy and Continued Relevance

After her fall from grace in the public eye, Bryant turned her focus to writing, publishing several books, including "The Anita Bryant Story," which articulated her vehement opposition to homosexuality. Despite facing immense ridicule, including parodies on shows like "Saturday Night Live" and "The Carol Burnett Show," she persisted in promoting her views, viewing herself as a defender of family values deeply rooted in her Christian faith.

Anita Bryant's legacy remains complex; while she was once a beloved figure in American pop culture, her staunch beliefs triggered significant cultural debates regarding LGBTQ+ rights and the intersection of faith and politics. Even after decades, Bryant's story continues to resonate, highlighting the ongoing struggle and evolution of societal attitudes towards the LGBTQ+ community.