NEW YORK — A viral video from a New York City subway is drawing national attention after a 70-year-old woman with osteoporosis was forced to offer money for a seat when no one stood up to let her sit.
The clip, posted by comedian and performer Linda Marcus Smith (@llindamarcussmith), shows her politely asking riders for help before resorting to a cash offer — a move that quickly turned a routine subway ride into a public debate about respect, manners, and generational empathy.
“I’ll Pay for a Seat”: A Plea Ignored on the Subway
In the video, Marcus Smith stands in a crowded subway car holding onto a pole as she speaks to seated passengers.
“70-year-old lady with osteoporosis who would like to have a seat,” she announces with a calm but hopeful tone. “Any takers? I’ll give you everything in my pockets for a seat on the train.”…