Ruth Buzzi, the beloved actress and comedian known for her unforgettable characters and sharp comedic timing, passed away on May 1 at her home in Texas. She was 88 and had been battling Alzheimer’s disease for several years.
Buzzi rose to fame as a standout performer on Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In, where she brought to life the unforgettable character Gladys Ormphby—a cranky woman with a hairnet and a quick purse-swing—earning her a place in comedy history. She was the only performer to appear in all six seasons of the hit variety show from 1968 to 1973.
Although her characters were often grumpy, Buzzi was widely known in real life as warm, gracious, and endlessly kind. Her wit, humility, and joy left a lasting impression on audiences and fellow entertainers alike.
Tributes from Fellow Stars
Following news of her passing, tributes poured in from across the entertainment world. Deana Martin, daughter of Dean Martin, shared on social media, “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.”
Nancy Sinatra echoed the sentiment, saying, “Ruth Buzzi was a comedic genius. Working alongside her on Laugh-In was the most fun I ever had working. I treasured her friendship… I love you, Ruthie.”
The team at Sesame Workshop, where Buzzi made guest appearances over the years, also shared their condolences: “Thank you, Ruth, for your laughter, your heart, and your imaginative spirit. You will always be a special person in our neighborhood.”
A Final Message to Fans
Just one day before her passing, Ruth’s husband, Kent Perkins, posted a heartfelt message on her behalf. In it, he thanked fans for their love and support over the decades and invited them to share memories, photos, and laughter.
“She probably had more fun doing those shows than you had watching them,” Kent wrote. “Ruthie loves you.”
He later announced that she had passed peacefully in her sleep.
Remembering a Comedy Icon
Fans from all generations have been sharing tributes, remembering her not only for her legendary work on Laugh-In, but also for her role as “Tough Kate” in The Apple Dumpling Gang Rides Again and as a familiar face on Sesame Street.
“She was my favorite growing up,” one fan wrote. “She made me laugh before I even knew what comedy was.”
In memory of Buzzi, her family has requested that donations be made to Alzheimer’s research in lieu of flowers—an act as generous and thoughtful as the woman herself.