Marianne von Gierke, Chilean bodybuilder, dies at 40

Chilean bodybuilder, lawyer, and coach Marianne von Gierke has died at the age of 40. Her death occurred in Punta Arenas, Chile, during the late hours of Tuesday, October 13, 2026.

Von Gierke was transported to the emergency ward at Clínica RedSalud Magallanes by her husband, arriving without vital signs. Despite efforts by medical personnel to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation, she could not be revived.

A prominent figure in South American bodybuilding, von Gierke was the first Chilean woman to compete in the Women’s Physique Pro category at Mr. Olympia. She most recently competed in the 2026 Mr. Olympia in Las Vegas, where she placed thirteenth. Her career included significant achievements such as winning the Arizona Pro and securing titles at the Mr. Olympia Amateur events in 2020 and 2021.