Ruth Buzzi, celebrated as an influential comedian and actress, gained fame for her iconic role in Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In. Tragically, she passed away in May 2025 at the age of 88 after a courageous battle with Alzheimer’s Disease, a debilitating neurological disorder that progressively deteriorates memory and cognitive functions, leading to significant challenges in daily living. Adding to her health struggles, Buzzi endured multiple strokes in 2022, which further affected her well-being. Despite these adversities, she remained a beacon of positivity, showcasing her remarkable sense of humor throughout her life.
In this tribute, we delve into Buzzi’s extraordinary life, her groundbreaking career in comedy, and the health challenges she faced, offering a heartfelt look back at her remarkable journey in the entertainment industry.
Discover the Legacy of Ruth Buzzi: A Comedic Icon
Ruth Buzzi is best known for her unforgettable portrayal of the quirky spinster Gladys Ormphby in the beloved television show Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In. Her character was famous for wielding her handbag as a comedic weapon, delighting audiences with her hilarious antics. In a 2016 interview with Nick Thomas, Buzzi fondly reminisced about her unforgettable character, reflecting on the joy it brought her fans.
“So many people ask me to hit them with my purse,” Buzzi shared during the interview. “In fact, a few years ago, we were at a Beverly Hills party and in walked Elton John. He immediately came over to me and said, ‘For God’s sakes, Ruth, please hit me with your purse. That’s been on my bucket list for years!’” This playful exchange highlights not only her comedic talent but also her enduring legacy in the world of entertainment.
I married a Texas guy in Hollywood and here we are —- 40 years later — retired on a ranch in The Lone Star State, where kids learn to write with pencils, not spray cans, and neighbors really care about one another. All I have to say is…
Yippie-tie-yi-yo! pic.twitter.com/V7DHOgmDkJ
— RUTH BUZZI (@Ruth_A_Buzzi) November 26, 2023
The Circumstances Surrounding Ruth Buzzi’s Passing
Ruth Buzzi’s passing was attributed to complications arising from her long-term struggle with Alzheimer’s Disease, as confirmed by her representative, Mike Eisenstadt, in a statement to The Hollywood Reporter in May 2025. This tragic news marked the end of an era for fans who cherished her comedic genius and contributions to entertainment.
Ruth Buzzi’s Health Journey: A Look at Her Challenges
Throughout her illustrious career, the late Golden Globe Award winner faced several significant health challenges. In 2012, she received a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Disease, a condition that would ultimately lead to her passing in 2025. Reports from 2022 revealed that she endured multiple strokes, which her husband, Kent Perkins, described as leaving her “bedridden and incapacitated” during that time. These health setbacks were formidable, yet they did not define her spirit.
Despite the struggles she faced, Buzzi maintained her characteristic wit and humor. Following the news of her strokes in 2022, the beloved Rhode Island native took to social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter) to connect with her fans and share her experiences with grace and humor.
“Some people have strokes of luck; I had the other kind,” Buzzi humorously remarked at the time, expressing her gratitude for the outpouring of love, messages, cards, letters, and “Sweet Tweets!” She cleverly concluded, “And although my final arrangements include cremation, I’m not quite ready to make an ash out of myself. xoxoxo.” Her ability to find humor in adversity was truly inspiring.
Even in her final days, Buzzi continued to uplift and entertain her followers. In April 2025, just weeks before her death, she tweeted, “You know you’re old when your walker comes with curb feelers and an airbag.” Such humor is a testament to her enduring legacy and the joy she brought to countless fans throughout her life.
