Award-winning actress and philanthropist Marlo Thomas (1937– ) has inspired generations to celebrate individuality and to live with courage and joy. Her voice as a television pioneer, bestselling writer, and tireless advocate continues to echo with warmth and conviction.

“Whether we know it or not, each of us carries our own unique slogan,” she wrote, “a custom-made catchphrase that resonates throughout our lives.” Her 2002 anthology The Right Words at the Right Time gathered mottos into inspiring stories, from Muhammad Ali’s G.O.A.T. mantra to Jeff Bezos’ reminder that kindness is harder than cleverness. Thomas shared her own guiding words—her father Danny Thomas’ advice to “Run your own race, Baby.”

Marlo became a role model for generations. First, as the star of That Girl (1966–1971), she broke ground as one of the first independent single women portrayed on American television, showing young women that their lives could be defined by choice and possibility. Then, through her visionary project Free to Be… You and Me, she reshaped childhood culture, celebrating feminism, self-esteem, and freedom of expression with songs, stories, and joy. She helped a new generation believe that their voices truly mattered.

“I thank my father for all his words that continue to live in my heart,” she said. And with her own work, she continues to share her life with compassion, creativity, and the courage to believe in yourself.