Beloved Comedian Ruth Buzzi Passes Away at 88
LOS ANGELES – Ruth Buzzi, famed for her role as the quirky, frumpy Gladys Ormphby on the iconic comedy show “Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In,” has died at the age of 88. A statement from her agent confirmed that Buzzi passed away at her Texas home.
Health Struggles
Buzzi had been living with Alzheimer’s disease and was under hospice care when she passed. Her husband, Kent Perkins, made a heartfelt post on her Facebook page just prior to her death, expressing gratitude to her fans and emphasizing her joy in performing: “She wants you to know she probably had more fun doing those shows than you had watching them.”
A Lifelong Career in Entertainment
Born on July 24, 1936, in Westerly, Rhode Island, Buzzi began her journey in the performing arts at the young age of 17 by attending the prestigious Pasadena Playhouse. There, she studied alongside future stars like Dustin Hoffman and Gene Hackman.
Throughout her extensive career, Buzzi performed in numerous productions across New England and collaborated with notable entertainers, including Barbra Streisand and Joan Rivers.
Defining Role in Laugh-In
Ruth Buzzi earned a permanent role in “Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In,” where she showcased her talent by portraying a range of characters from domestic figures to Southern belles. Over the show’s five-year run from 1968 to 1973, Buzzi became a beloved figure, securing a Golden Globe and two Emmy nominations. Notably, she was the only cast member to appear in all six seasons, including the pilot.
Legacy of Achievements
With over 200 television appearances throughout her 45-year career, Buzzi left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. She stated in an interview, “I never took my work for granted, nor assumed I deserved more of the credit or spotlight or more pay than anyone else. I was just thrilled to drive down the hill to NBC every day as an employed actor with a job to do.”
Her versatility extended beyond Laugh-In; she featured in music videos with artists like “Weird Al” Yankovic and The B-52’s, and lent her voice to cartoons such as “The Smurfs” and “Sesame Street,” where she was an Emmy nominee for her role as shopkeeper Ruthie. Movie credits include titles like “Freaky Friday” and “The Apple Dumpling Gang Rides Again.”
Personal Life and Retirement
Buzzi was married to actor Kent Perkins since 1978, and the couple relocated to Texas in 2003, purchasing a large ranch near Stephenville. After retiring from acting in 2021, Buzzi faced health challenges, including strokes and dementia.
Ruth Buzzi’s contributions to comedy and the arts have left a lasting legacy, and her joyous spirit will be remembered by fans and fellow entertainers alike.
