Ruth Buzzi, born on July 24, 1936, in Westerly, Rhode Island, was a celebrated American actress and comedian renowned for her work on stage, television, and in film. She passed away on May 1, 2025, at the age of 88, due to complications from Alzheimer's disease.
Buzzi's early life was steeped in the arts; her father, Angelo Peter Buzzi, was a nationally recognized stone sculptor. She pursued her passion for performance at the Pasadena Playhouse College of Theatre Arts, graduating with honours in 1957. Her classmates included future stars like Dustin Hoffman and Gene Hackman.
Her career took off with appearances in off-Broadway musical revues and television commercials. She gained national attention on "The Garry Moore Show" in 1964 and later on "The Steve Allen Comedy Hour." However, it was her role on NBC's "Rowan & Martin's Laugh-In" (1968–1973) that made her a household name. Buzzi was the only featured player to appear in every episode of the show, earning a Golden Globe Award and five Emmy nominations for her performances.
Among her most iconic characters was Gladys Ormphby, a frumpy spinster known for wielding her handbag as a weapon against unwanted advances, particularly from Arte Johnson's character, Tyrone F. Horneigh. This portrayal became a symbol of resistance and resonated with audiences during the sexual revolution of the time.
Beyond "Laugh-In," Buzzi's versatility shone through various roles. She appeared on "That Girl," "The Dean Martin Show," and "The Carol Burnett Show," among others. Her voice brought to life characters in animated series like "The Smurfs," "The Berenstain Bears," and "Pound Puppies." In the 1990s, she joined "Sesame Street" as Ruthie, the shopkeeper of Finders Keepers, endearing herself to a new generation of viewers.
Buzzi's film credits include "Freaky Friday," "The North Avenue Irregulars," and "The Apple Dumpling Gang Rides Again." She also made memorable appearances on the Dean Martin Celebrity Roasts, often reprising her role as Gladys to comedic effect.
In her personal life, Buzzi married actor Kent Perkins in 1978. The couple resided on a 600-acre ranch near Stephenville, Texas, where they raised cattle and horses. Buzzi was an avid oil painter, donating her works to charity auctions, and supported numerous children's and animal charities, including the Make-A-Wish Foundation and the Utopia Animal Rescue Ranch.
Diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease in 2012, Buzzi suffered a series of strokes in 2022, leading to her retirement from acting in 2021. She spent her final years in hospice care, passing away peacefully in her sleep. Her legacy endures through her groundbreaking contributions to comedy and her unforgettable characters that left an indelible mark on American entertainment.
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