Renowned reviewer Marilyn Hagerty, famous for her Olive Garden review that went viral, passes away at the age of 99.
Marilyn Hagerty, Notable Food Columnist, Passes Away at 99
Marilyn Hagerty, a beloved figure in the media world and a respected food critic, passed away on September 16, 2021, in Grand Forks, North Dakota. She was 99 years old.
Hagerty's career began with her restaurant column, The Eatbeat, in the regional newspaper Herald in Grand Forks. For 26 years, she provided insightful and earnest reviews of local eateries, earning a devoted following.
In early 2012, Hagerty wrote about the opening of the first Olive Garden outlet in Grand Forks. The Olive Garden, a local branch of a national Italian restaurant chain, was a significant addition to the city's dining scene. The outlet was known for the fact that the warm breadsticks never ran out.
Hagerty's review of the North Dakota Olive Garden gained her national media attention and a book contract. The article, published in early 2012, racked up over one million page views.
The Olive Garden in Grand Forks was not just a restaurant for Hagerty; it was a symbol of the city's growth and development. Her review, filled with her characteristic warmth and enthusiasm, captured the essence of the place and resonated with readers across the country.
Hagerty's son, James R. Hagerty, is also a journalist. He shared in his mother's joy as her work gained recognition, but also in her sorrow when she passed away due to complications from a stroke in a hospital.
Marilyn Hagerty will be remembered for her contributions to journalism and her love for food. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of her readers and in the continued success of The Eatbeat, her beloved restaurant column.
