Ruth Buzzi, comedy legend and 'Laugh-In' star, dies at 88
Ruth Buzzi, the actress and comedian best known for her iconic role on the NBC sketch comedy series Rowan & Martin's Laugh-In, has passed away at 88.
The news was shared by her family through a post on her official Facebook page, revealing that Buzzi died peacefully in her sleep at her home in Texas on Thursday. She had been in hospice care for several years after being diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease.
Buzzi's passing marks the end of an era for a performer whose career spanned decades. She was nominated for five Emmys and gained national fame for her appearances on Laugh-In, which aired from 1968 to 1973. Known for her role as Gladys, a character famous for hitting people with her purse, Buzzi's humor and unique delivery made her a household name. She continued to be beloved by fans long after the show ended, often recalling her time on Laugh-In with fondness, calling it "pure spontaneous fun."
Buzzi's career extended beyond Laugh-In. She appeared on several other television shows, including The Carol Burnett Show, The Dean Martin Show, and The Monkees. She also lent her voice to characters in animated series such as The Berenstain Bears and Alvin and the Chipmunks. Her contributions to television and comedy left an indelible mark on generations of viewers.
In 2023, Buzzi was the victim of a death hoax that left her fans concerned. She had to take to her Facebook page to reassure them that she was, in fact, alive, writing that she was "quite alive, but distressed—unnecessarily." She shared a light-hearted post about having enjoyed breakfast and spending time with her husband, Kent Perkins, and their cats, humorously addressing the rumors that falsely claimed her passing.
In a bittersweet moment, Buzzi's husband, Kent Perkins, shared a heartfelt message with her fans shortly before her death, expressing gratitude for the support she had received throughout her career. 'She probably had more fun doing those shows than you had watching them,' he said on Buzzi's Facebook page.
Buzzi had been in declining health for several years, suffering strokes in 2022, which had forced her into early retirement. Despite her health issues, she continued to engage with her fans online and was remembered for her warmth and humor.
In honor of her legacy, her family has requested donations to Alzheimer's research instead of flowers. Ruth Buzzi's passing is a loss to the comedy world, but her laughter and wit will continue to be cherished by those who knew her work.
Buzzi is survived by her husband, Kent Perkins, and many friends and fans who fondly remember her humor and contributions to television.
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