The hilarious Ruth Buzzi died May 1 at her Texas home following a lengthy battle with Alzheimer’s. Ruth was a groundbreaking comedian who made millions laugh with her portrayal of Gladys Ormphby on Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In. The sketch comedy program helped launch Ruth’s career, and she was the only regular cast member to appear in all six seasons from 1968 to 1973. Though Gladys was a curmudgeon, the actress who played her was anything but. Many celebs paid tribute to their friend.
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Deana Martin shared on X, “With heavy hearts, we mourn the loss of our cherished friend, the brilliantly comedic Ruth Buzzi. Her laughter and warmth touched us all, leaving an everlasting void. Rest in peace, dear Ruthie. Deana Martin & John Griffeth.”
Nancy Sinatra agreed. She posted on X, “Ruth Buzzi was a comedic genius. Working alongside her on Laugh-In was the most fun I ever had working. I treasured her friendship and I am heartbroken to wake up to the news that she is gone. I love you, Ruthie. Godspeed, old friend. Sending condolences to her husband, Kent, and to all who loved her.”
Sesame Workshop adored Ruth and shared a sweet message with her family on X, “Sesame Workshop mourns the passing of Ruth Buzzi, who brought warmth, wit, and joy to Sesame Street and beyond. Thank you Ruth for your laughter, your heart, and your imaginative spirit. You will always be a special person in our neighborhood.”
Ruth Buzzi Kept Up With Fans On Social Media
Ruth Buzzi’s husband, Kent Perkins, shared a message with her fans the day before her death.
“She asked me to thank all of you for being so good to her for so many years. She wants you to know she probably had more fun doing those shows than you had watching them. Because of health issues, she must withdraw from writing, but she will still be reading and enjoying your posts,” Kent wrote. “If you’ve met Ruthie and had a picture taken with her, please post it below. If you have a great memory from her career that you enjoyed — a special comedy sketch, or a moment that made you laugh — share that with us. Ruthie loves you.”
Hours later, Kent shared that Ruth passed peacefully in her sleep.
Her fans loved Ruth as much as she loved them. Many shared condolences on Facebook.
A fan wrote, “One of my favorite yet lesser-known roles she played was that of ‘Tough Kate’ in the movie The Apple Dumpling Gang Rides Again. My family and I laugh every time!! Thank you for being so marvelously gifted! God bless you and your family.”
Many shared sweet memories of Ruth Buzzi. This fan wrote, “I knew her first as Ms. Ruthie from Sesame St. then when I realized she was also the lady from laugh in it blew my mind! Love you funny lady!”
Ruth’s Buzzi was 88 years old. In lieu of flowers, her family requested donations to Alzheimer’s research.
This story’s featured image is by Joan Adlen/Getty Images.
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