"Trailblazing Bathhouse Impresario Steve Ostrow Dies at 91, Leaving a Lasting Legacy"
Steve Ostrow, the founder of New York City's iconic Continental Baths, a pioneering gay bathhouse and performance space that helped launch the careers of Bette Midler and Barry Manilow in the early '70s, has passed away at 91. Ostrow, who was bisexual, transformed the scene from seedy to extravagant, offering live entertainment and DJ nights. The Baths had a significant impact on LGBTQ+ history, and Ostrow continued his advocacy work in Australia.