Remembering Ruth Buzzi: More Than Just a Scowl
It’s with a heavy heart that we say goodbye to Ruth Buzzi. At 88, she passed away from complications of Alzheimer's, leaving behind a legacy of laughter that’s hard to measure. For those of us who grew up with her, it feels like a piece of our childhood is gone. You know, those moments of pure, unadulterated joy you can revisit in your memory anytime?
A Star is Born (in Rhode Island!)
Ruth wasn’t born in Hollywood; she was born in Rhode Island! She grew up in Connecticut, though, and her acting dreams eventually led her to the Pasadena Playhouse. Can you imagine? She was honing her craft alongside future legends like Dustin Hoffman and Gene Hackman! Talk about an incredible group of people to start your career around. After the Playhouse, it was a whirlwind of comedy revues and TV appearances – she even graced The Garry Moore Show. And if that wasn't impressive enough, she was in the original Broadway production of Sweet Charity! That's not the stuff of small town dreams, that's a powerhouse career waiting to happen.
Gladys Ormphby: An Icon is Made
But then came 1968, and everything changed. Rowan & Martin's Laugh-In. Remember that show? The sheer energy, the quick-witted jokes… it was revolutionary. And smack-dab in the middle of it all was Ruth, playing Gladys Ormphby. Honestly, who could forget that perpetually scowling spinster and that handbag? It's become iconic. Her comedic clashes with Arte Johnson? Pure gold. Some of the funniest moments on television ever came from those two. And get this – she was the only regular cast member to appear in every single episode of the show’s six-season run. That’s dedication!
Beyond the Scowl: A Versatile Career
Laugh-In made her a star, but it wasn’t the end of her story. Oh no, Ruth’s career spanned decades! She did voice work (including Sesame Street – who knew?), film roles, and countless television appearances. Her comedic timing was impeccable, her physical comedy was masterful, and her characters? Unforgettable. Even after she retired in 2021, she stayed connected to her fans through social media, her humor never fading. It's just amazing how she continued to connect with people, sharing her gifts to the very end.
A Legacy of Laughter That Will Never Fade
Ruth Buzzi’s impact on comedy is undeniable. She was a true original, a gifted performer who touched millions with her talent. Her sharp wit, her memorable characters, her unique brand of humor… it all added up to something truly special. While it's incredibly sad to see her go, we can find comfort in knowing her legacy of laughter will live on. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations to the Alzheimer's Association.
