Vito Russo was an American LGBTQ+ activist, author, and film historian, best known for his influential book, The Celluloid Closet. Published in 1981, the book examined the portrayal of LGBTQ+ characters in film and highlighted the negative stereotypes that often existed. Russo's work played a significant role in raising awareness about the representation of LGBTQ+ individuals in media. In addition to his writing, Russo was a prominent figure in the Gay Liberation Movement during the 1970s and 1980s. He co-founded the Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD) and was an advocate for AIDS awareness. Russo's contributions have had a lasting impact on both LGBTQ+ rights and film criticism.