Matthew Rooney, grandson of Steelers founder Art Rooney, dies at 51 in the Hamptons
Matthew Joseph Rooney died at his East Hampton, New York home on August 15, 2025. He was 51. The Rooney family confirmed the death and asked for privacy as they mourn the loss. A specific cause of death has not been released.
Born November 11, 1973 in Meadow Brook, Pennsylvania, Matthew was the son of JoAnn Wallace Rooney and John J. Rooney, who was a minority shareholder of the Pittsburgh Steelers until selling the majority of his stake in 2009.
Rooney attended New York University, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree, and later earned a Master’s degree from Columbia University. An accomplished writer and artist, he also cherished ballet and opera. He spent time living in New York and Los Angeles before settling in Brooklyn Heights and East Hampton.
Family and friends remember him for his wit, charm and love of fashion, describing him as one of life’s last true dandies and an authentic presence in social circles. He was active in the arts community, serving as vice chair of the donor arm of the New York City Ballet’s Allegro Circle and sitting on the board of directors for the Metropolitan Opera.
He is survived by his mother, four older siblings, 15 nieces and nephews, and 18 great-nieces and great-nephews. The Rooney family has owned the Steelers since Art Rooney founded the franchise in 1933; Art Rooney served as chairman and owner until his death in 1988, with his son Dan Rooney leading the team as president until 2002. The club is now run by Art Rooney II, Dan’s son and Matthew’s cousin.
A private funeral and burial are planned for Matthew Rooney on August 21 in Philadelphia.
Context and additional notes:
– Matthew Rooney’s life bridged the worlds of major American sport and high culture, reflecting the family’s long-standing involvement in both the Steelers organization and the arts.
– His contributions to the New York ballet and Metropolitan Opera boards highlight a lesser-known but meaningful facet of the Rooney family’s public footprint beyond football.
– The obituary paints a portrait of a culturally engaged individual who valued education, the arts, and a distinctive personal style.
Positive takeaway:
Matthew Rooney is remembered not only for his family name but for his personal passions and civic engagement in the arts. His legacy lives in the cultural institutions he supported and in the continued prominence of the Rooney family across sports and arts communities.