Comedic Legend Ruth Buzzi Passes Away at 88
Ruth Buzzi, renowned for her role as the quirky and often disgruntled Gladys Ormphby on the iconic sketch comedy show Rowan & Martin's Laugh-In, has died at the age of 88. Her passing occurred at her residence in Texas, as confirmed by her agent, Mike Eisenstadt. Buzzi had been battling Alzheimer's disease and was receiving hospice care prior to her death.
In a heartfelt message shared on her Facebook page shortly before her demise, her husband, Kent Perkins, expressed gratitude to her numerous fans and conveyed her sentiment that she enjoyed performing in those shows more than her audience enjoyed watching them.
Buzzi's career spanned over 45 years, during which she made more than 200 television appearances. She gained fame primarily through her work on Laugh-In, where she was an integral part of all six seasons from 1968 to 1973, making her the only regular cast member to do so. Throughout her time on the show, she earned a Golden Globe Award and received two Emmy nominations.
Many in the entertainment industry have paid tribute to Buzzi following her passing. Notable singer Nancy Sinatra expressed her sorrow on social media, reminiscing about the joy of working alongside Buzzi. Similarly, singer Deana Martin remarked on Buzzi's warmth and the lasting impact of her laughter.
Buzzi's character, Gladys Ormphby, became a cultural icon, known for her unique ability to wield her purse as a weapon against those who annoyed her, most notably Arte Johnson's character, Tyrone F. Horneigh. This character resonated with audiences, representing the struggles of the overlooked and marginalized.
The genesis of the Gladys character traces back to Buzzi's audition for Laugh-In. She was discovered by the show's creator, George Schlatter, who was captivated by a photograph of her in her Ormphby costume, which included a hairnet and a wire mesh trash barrel. In his memoir, Schlatter recounted how he was drawn to Buzzi's embodiment of the character.
In addition to her signature role, Buzzi showcased her comedic talents through various characters on Laugh-In, including Flicker Farkle and Busy-Buzzi, a gossip columnist. Her performances often highlighted the absurdity of everyday life, striking a chord with audiences.
Buzzi's early life began in Westerly, Rhode Island, where she was born on July 24, 1936. She pursued a career in acting, enrolling at the Pasadena Playhouse and later earning her Actors' Equity union card. Her big break came in the 1960s with a role on The Garry Moore Show, which set the stage for her future success.
Throughout her career, Buzzi appeared on various television shows and was a familiar face on variety programs hosted by legends such as Carol Burnett and Jim Nabors. She also had guest roles in numerous series, including That Girl and Sesame Street, where she was nominated for an Emmy.
In addition to television, Buzzi had a successful career in film, appearing in movies like Freaky Friday and The Apple Dumpling Gang Rides Again. She also lent her voice to numerous animated characters in popular children's shows.
Buzzi was not only recognized for her comedic prowess but also for her captivating personality, which endeared her to fans and colleagues alike. She remained active on social media, sharing her wit with a large following until her health declined.
Ruth Buzzi's legacy as a pioneer in comedy will continue to inspire future generations. Her unique contributions to television and her ability to connect with audiences through humor have left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry.
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