Zayd Ayers Dohrn: Playwright and Northwestern Professor Reflects on Revolutionary Parents in Memoir and New Play
Zayd Ayers Dohrn, a professor at Northwestern University and a playwright, is the offspring of Weather Underground figures Bill Ayers and Bernardine Dohrn. In May 2024, Fox News brought attention to his heritage while reporting on an agreement involving pro-Palestinian student demonstrators. The 49-year-old Dohrn reflects on his parents' history in his memoir, "Dangerous, Dirty, Violent & Young," released in May, which recounts his upbringing as a fugitive. His musical, "Revolution(s)," debuted in 2025. His latest play, "The Humanities," is set to premiere on September 13, addressing issues of free speech on campuses. Dohrn critiques the wealth disparity in America and has complex opinions on trigger warnings. His parents reside in Hyde Park, where his mother suffers from dementia. He and his wife, Rachel DeWoskin, have two daughters.
Key facts
- Zayd Ayers Dohrn is a playwright, screenwriter, and Northwestern University professor.
- His parents, Bill Ayers and Bernardine Dohrn, were leaders of the Weather Underground.
- His memoir, 'Dangerous, Dirty, Violent & Young,' was published in May.
- His musical 'Revolution(s),' with Tom Morello, premiered at the Goodman Theatre in 2025.
- His play 'The Humanities' opens September 13 at Victory Gardens Theater.
- In May 2024, Northwestern made a deal with pro-Palestinian protesters, drawing media attention to Dohrn's lineage.
- Bernardine Dohrn has been diagnosed with dementia but read her son's book.
- Dohrn's wife is novelist Rachel DeWoskin; they have two daughters.
Entities
Artists
- Zayd Ayers Dohrn
- Bill Ayers
- Bernardine Dohrn
- Tom Morello
- Rachel DeWoskin
Institutions
- Northwestern University
- Goodman Theatre
- Victory Gardens Theater
- University of Illinois Chicago
- Fox News
- FBI
- Weather Underground
Locations
- Chicago
- United States
- New York