Anne Kaufman Schneider: Champion of Her Father’s Legacy, Passes Away at 99

Anne Kaufman Schneider, the dedicated steward of her father’s legendary theatrical works, passed away on March 13, 2025, at the age of 99 in her Manhattan home. For more than half a century, she safeguarded and championed the legacy of George S. Kaufman, the Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright behind You Can’t Take It With You and Of Thee I Sing.

As her father’s influence on 20th-century theater endured, Anne played a pivotal role in ensuring his works remained relevant for new generations. She actively encouraged revivals, regional productions, and licensing efforts, bringing Kaufman’s wit and sharp social satire back to the stage, long after his passing in 1961.

In an interview with The New York Times, Anne once remarked, “I have made his work my agenda in life.” And she did just that—she oversaw major Broadway revivals, helped steer Kaufman’s plays into contemporary culture, and worked tirelessly to introduce his comedic genius to new audiences.

Beyond being an advocate for her father’s works, Anne was known for her own distinct presence in the theatrical world. She brought both an astute business mind and a deep appreciation for storytelling, qualities that kept Kaufman’s plays alive in an ever-changing industry.

Her passing marks the end of an era, but her dedication ensures that the legacy of George S. Kaufman will continue to thrive.

As the official website of the George S. Kaufman estate, we remain dedicated to preserving and celebrating his work, ensuring that his influence continues to shape and inspire modern theater.

Read more about Anne Kaufman Schneider’s life and contributions in The New York Times article.

For those who’d like to hear Anne Kaufman Schneider in her own words, here’s a fascinating interview featuring her alongside Kitty Carlisle Hart.

Credit: This video is embedded from the Theater Talk Archive YouTube channel.