Legendary Comedian and Actress Ruth Buzzi Passes Away at 94

Ruth Buzzi, a talented comedian, actress, and writer who rose to fame in the 1960s and 1970s, has passed away at the age of 94. She was best known for her iconic role as Gladys Ormphby on the groundbreaking sketch comedy series Rowan & Martins Laugh-In.

Early Life and Career

Born on September 30, 1928, in Chicago, Illinois, Ruth Buzzi grew up in a family of modest means. Her early life was marked by a passion for performing, which led her to study drama at the Goodman Theatre School in Chicago. After completing her studies, she began her career as an actress and comedian, taking on various roles in television shows, stage productions, and films.

Breakthrough Role

Buzzi's breakthrough role came when she joined Rowan & Martins Laugh-In in 1967. The show, which was known for its irreverent humor and edgy satire, quickly gained popularity and became a cultural phenomenon. Buzzi's portrayal of Gladys Ormphby, a frumpy and bitter housewife, became one of the show's most iconic characters.

Impact on Comedy

Rowan & Martins Laugh-In was a groundbreaking show that pushed the boundaries of comedy and satire. It tackled topics such as politics, social issues, and cultural norms with humor and wit. Buzzi's performance on the show helped to establish her as a talented comedic actress and paved the way for future generations of female comedians.

Television Appearances

In addition to her work on Rowan & Martins Laugh-In, Buzzi made over 200 television appearances throughout her career. She appeared in numerous shows, including The Carol Burnett Show, The Dean Martin Celebrity Roasts, and Saturday Night Live. Her versatility as a comedic actress allowed her to tackle a wide range of roles and genres.

Awards and Recognition

Throughout her career, Buzzi received numerous awards and nominations for her performances. She won an Emmy Award for Outstanding Writing Achievement in Comedy in 1968 for her work on Rowan & Martins Laugh-In. She also won a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actress in a Television Series in 1970.

Personal Life

Buzzi was married twice, first to actor Bill Daily from 1953 to 1964, and then to actor Larry Storch in 1968. The couple remained together until his passing in 2011. She had one child from her first marriage, a son named Bruce.

Legacy

Ruth Buzzi's legacy as a comedic actress and writer will be remembered for generations to come. Her iconic performance on Rowan & Martins Laugh-In helped to establish her as a talented comedian and paved the way for future generations of female comedians. Her impact on comedy is still felt today, with many comedians citing her as an influence.

Fun Facts

• Ruth Buzzi's birthday, September 30, was also the birthday of her co-star, Dan Rowan.
• She was a talented writer and won several awards for her work on Rowan & Martins Laugh-In.
• Buzzi made over 200 television appearances throughout her career, making her one of the most prolific actresses of her generation.

Conclusion

Ruth Buzzi's passing at the age of 94 is a sad loss for the comedy world. Her legacy as a comedic actress and writer will be remembered for generations to come. Her iconic performance on Rowan & Martins Laugh-In helped to establish her as a talented comedian, and her impact on comedy is still felt today.