10/30/2026
The vegan movement has lost one of its most influential voices.
Howard Lyman, a fourth-generation cattle rancher who became a vegan and devoted much of his life to advocating for animals, has died at 88.
He knew the cattle industry from the inside. He had spent years raising cattle and operating a large feedlot before a life-changing health crisis prompted him to reconsider his life and the way he viewed food.
He eventually became vegan, not only for his own health, but because he came to recognize that animals didn't need to suffer and die for us.
Known as the "Mad Cowboy," Howard became a powerful advocate for veganism, authoring books, speaking across the country, and bringing important conversations about animal agriculture into the mainstream.
His 1996 appearance on The Oprah Winfrey Show helped bring national attention to concerns about mad cow disease and cattle feed practices.
He demonstrated that people can change, that firsthand experience can become a catalyst for compassion, and that even those who once participated in animal agriculture can become some of its strongest critics.
His life and advocacy made a difference for countless animals and inspired generations of people to question what they had always been taught.
Rest in peace, Howard. Thank you for using your voice for the animals 💚
