Matthew Joseph Rooney, grandson of Pro Football Hall of Fame Enshrinee and Pittsburgh Steelers founder Art Rooney, has died at age 51. He passed away on Aug. 15, 2025 at his home in East Hampton, New York. The news was shared by the Rooney family and the Pittsburgh Steelers, who expressed they were “terribly saddened” by his passing. No cause of death was provided.
Rooney was born Nov. 11, 1973, in Meadowbrook, Pennsylvania, to JoAnn Wallace Rooney and the late John J. Rooney, a former minority owner of the Steelers who sold most of his stake in 2009. Matthew Rooney is survived by three siblings as well as nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews.
His education included Gwynedd Mercy Academy and The Hill School in Pottstown, Pennsylvania. He later attended New York University where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree before completing his master’s degree at Columbia University. At both institutions he received several writing accolades.
Though known for being part of a family with deep football ties, Matthew Rooney devoted much of his life to supporting the arts. He was involved with ballet and opera organizations throughout New York City. He served as vice chair for Allegro Circle—the donor group for New York City Ballet—and joined the board of directors for the Metropolitan Opera in 2024 before becoming an advisory director in 2025.
The Metropolitan Opera acknowledged “Matthew’s ongoing commitment to the organization,” highlighting his support for gala events and other efforts promoting the arts.
Joshua Kamei commented on Instagram: “I was saddened to hear about the passing of Matthew Rooney. I didn’t know him well, but he was always a kind, familiar face at the ballet – someone who had a special way of making others feel welcome and celebrated.”
According to his obituary, friends remember him for his humor, charm, sense of fashion and creativity. His philanthropic work extended beyond performing arts into LGBTQ+ healthcare causes.
