Ruth Buzzi, a cornerstone of television comedy, has died.
According to Breitbart, Ruth Buzzi passed away at her Texas home after a prolonged battle with Alzheimer's disease; she was 88 years old.
Ruth Buzzi was born on July 24, 1936, in Westerly, Rhode Island. Angelo Buzzi, her father, was a renowned stone sculptor. Ruth's journey into the entertainment industry began at the tender age of 17 when she attended the Pasadena Playhouse, earning her actor's union card before completing her studies.
In 1964, Ruth had her national television breakthrough on “The Garry Moore Show.” By 1966, she was a part of the original Broadway cast of “Sweet Charity.” Ruth Buzzi's career spanned over 45 years, marked by more than 200 television appearances.
She was most famously known for her role as Gladys Ormphby on the hit show “Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In,” where she remained the only regular cast member throughout its six-season run from 1968 to 1973. Buzzi won a Golden Globe and received two Emmy nominations throughout her career.
Ruth Buzzi's portrayal of Gladys Ormphby became iconic, especially her use of a purse to target her comedic foil, Arte Johnson's character Tyrone F. Horneigh. This, among various other roles on “Laugh-In,” including Flicker Farkle and Doris Swizzler, showcased her versatile comedic talent.
Ruth Buzzi voiced many characters in children’s cartoon series like “Pound Puppies” and “The Smurfs” and made notable appearances in films such as “Freaky Friday” and “The Apple Dumpling Gang Rides Again.” Additionally, she featured on the Dean Martin Celebrity Roasts, where she humorously hit celebrities with her purse.
Later in her career, Ruth earned an Emmy nomination for her role as shopkeeper Ruthie on “Sesame Street,” further endearing her to audiences of all ages.
In 1978, Ruth Buzzi married Kent Perkins, and the couple moved to Texas in 2003, purchasing a 640-acre ranch. Ruth ultimately retired from acting in 2021 and battled with her health after being diagnosed with dementia following a series of strokes in 2022.
Kent Perkins, shortly before her death, shared a statement reflecting on his wife's joyful career on Buzzi’s Facebook page: “She wants you to know she probably had more fun doing those shows than you had watching them.”
Ruth Buzzi herself once remarked on social media about her razor-sharp wit, stating, “I have never faked a sarcasm” and whimsically noted, “Scientists say the universe is made up entirely of neurons, protons, and electrons. They seem to have missed morons.”
Among those mourning her loss is Nancy Sinatra, who recalled working with Buzzi on “Laugh-In”: "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.”
George Schlatter, the producer of “Laugh-In,” shared his fond memories, saying, “I think I hired her because of my passion for Gladys Ormphby... My favorite Gladys line was when she announced that the day of the office Christmas party, they sent her home early.”
Ruth Buzzi leaves behind a legacy of laughter and warmth, her characters and unforgettable moments resonating with a host of fans and colleagues. Her impact on television and comedy will endure, celebrated by those who knew her and those who were just fans. She is survived by her husband, Kent Perkins, who was by her side during her final days.
