Ruth Buzzi, a central figure in comedic television, has died at 88.
According to the Associated Press, Her talent graced over 200 television shows, movies, and stages during a career that lasted more than four decades.
Buzzi was born on July 24, 1936, in Westerly, Rhode Island, to prominent stone sculptor Angelo Buzzi. She grew up in Stonington, Connecticut, where she made her mark as head cheerleader in high school. Her passion for acting led her to enroll at the Pasadena Playhouse at 17.
Her journey to fame began in New York, joining an off-Broadway musical revue, a first of 19 on the East Coast. National attention came when she appeared on “The Garry Moore Show” in 1964. However, it was her beloved character, Gladys Ormphby, on “Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In” that made her a household name during its run from 1968 to 1973.
Her peers and fans celebrated her work for brilliantly capturing the humorous essence of the late 1960s and early 1970s. Buzzi’s portrayal of Ormphby, known for her trademark hairnet and sharp wit, earned her a Golden Globe and made her a two-time Emmy nominee.
Producer George Schlatter recalled in his memoir Buzzi’s comedic prowess, highlighting how her character resonated with those who felt overlooked and marginalized. “Gladys embodies the overlooked... so when she fights back, she speaks for everyone,” Buzzi remarked to The Connecticut Post in 2018.
Buzzi's versatility extended beyond “Laugh-In,” with memorable roles as Flicker Farkle, Busy-Buzzi, and more. Her influence spanned genres through performances in nightclubs, including Las Vegas engagements, and co-starring roles in series like “That Girl” and “The Lost Saucer.”
Her talents were not confined to television alone; she joined the original Broadway cast of “Sweet Charity” in 1966 with Gwen Verdon. Buzzi's wide-ranging abilities also led her to guest appearances on variety shows by hosts such as Carol Burnett and Flip Wilson.
The diversity of her career extended to music videos with "Weird Al" Yankovic and the B-52’s, as well as voice work for animations like “Pound Puppies” and “The Smurfs.” She earned another Emmy nomination for her contributions to “Sesame Street.”
Actors and musicians, including Nancy Sinatra, lamented Buzzi’s passing, with Sinatra posting heartfelt condolences on social media, celebrating Buzzi's legacy and their shared memories. “Ruth Buzzi was a comedic genius...I am heartbroken to wake up to the news that she is gone,” she expressed.
In her personal life, Buzzi married actor Kent Perkins in 1978, and the couple relocated to Texas in 2003. Her private life, though quieter in the later years, was marked by enduring love and cherished moments. Buzzi retired from the rigors of acting in 2021. Unfortunately, she faced health challenges, including a series of strokes in 2022 and an eventual diagnosis of Alzheimer's, leading to hospice care.
Kent Perkins shared that Buzzi found joy in her performances, saying she likely enjoyed her work more than the audiences themselves. Perkins' tribute highlighted her profound love for being an actor.
Ruth Buzzi passed away on a Thursday at her Texas home. Her loss marks the end of a vibrant era in entertainment, leaving a legacy of laughs and fond memories. With characters warmly remembered, Buzzi's comedic influence remains enduring and greatly missed.
