Ruth Buzzi, a renowned figure in American comedy and television, passed away peacefully at her home in Texas at the age of 88, her family announced on Friday. The legendary actress, known for her role as the no-nonsense Gladys Ormphby on ‘Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In,’ had been battling Alzheimer’s disease and had been in hospice care for several years.
Her husband of over 40 years, Kent Perkins, shared that she died in her sleep, expressing gratitude for the years they shared. ‘She was in hospice care for several years with Alzheimer’s disease,’ he noted. ‘She had suffered devastating strokes, but her spirit and love for making people smile remained.’
Born on July 24, 1936, in Rhode Island and raised in Connecticut, Buzzi’s early years were marked by a passion for theater. After enrolling at the Pasadena Playhouse College of Theatre Arts, she quickly made her mark in show business, eventually becoming a staple of late 1960s television with appearances on shows like ‘The Monkees’ and ‘That Girl.’
Her breakthrough came with ‘Laugh-In,’ where she became famous for her comedic timing and memorable characters, especially Gladys Ormphby, a role she played in every episode of the show’s six seasons from 1967 to 1973. Critics lauded her talent, with George Schlatter, the show’s creator, stating in 2019 that ‘You can’t find anyone funnier than Goldie Hawn or Ruth Buzzi or Arte Johnson.’
Throughout her career, Buzzi accumulated numerous accolades, including a Golden Globe and multiple Emmy nominations. Her versatility extended beyond TV, with roles in movies such as ‘Freaky Friday’ and ‘The Apple Dumpling Gang Rides Again,’ as well as voice work for animated series like ‘The Smurfs’ and ‘Berenstain Bears.’
Despite her fame, she remained humble and dedicated to her craft, never taking her success for granted. Her performances often highlighted her ability to embody characters that resonated with everyday struggles, making her a feminist icon of sorts. Her characters often fought back against societal oppression using humor and wit, a trait she vividly brought to life through her roles.
In her personal life, she married actor Kent Perkins in 1978, later relocating to a ranch in Texas. Her commitment to her craft never waned, even as she retired from acting in 2021. Her social media presence continued to entertain fans with her trademark humor until her health declined.
Ruth Buzzi’s legacy is one of laughter, resilience, and timeless humor that has influenced generations of comedians and entertainers. Her contributions to television and film will be remembered fondly by fans and colleagues alike.
