Ruth Buzzi, a trailblazer in television comedy and beloved star of Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In, passed away on May 1, 2025, at the age of 88. Her death marked the end of a storied career that spanned more than five decades and left an indelible mark on American entertainment. At the time of her passing, her net worth was estimated at $25 million, reflecting both a successful entertainment career and savvy personal investments.
Buzzi died at her home in Stephenville, Texas, following a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease, which she had quietly endured for nearly a decade. Her husband, Kent Perkins, confirmed the news in a heartfelt Facebook post, requesting that donations be made to Alzheimer’s research (alz.org) in lieu of flowers. The statement also noted that Lacy Funeral Home would handle the memorial arrangements.
Early Career and Rise to Fame
Born Ruth Ann Buzzi in Westerly, Rhode Island, she was raised in Stonington, Connecticut, and began her journey into the arts at an early age. After training at the Pasadena Playhouse in California, she started performing in musical theater and soon transitioned into television. Her professional acting career kicked off on Broadway before she gained national attention in the 1960s and ’70s.
Buzzi’s breakthrough came when she joined The Steve Allen Comedy Hour, which set the stage for her role on Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In. There, she crafted some of her most iconic characters, most notably Gladys Ormphby, the handbag-wielding spinster with sharp one-liners and comedic timing that made her a household name. She became a staple of sketch comedy, earning a Golden Globe Award and multiple Emmy nominations.
Television and Voice Acting Success
Buzzi’s comedic talents translated across genres. She appeared in beloved shows like The Gary Moore Show, Linus the Lionhearted, and The Dean Martin Show. She also voiced characters in animated series such as Baggy Pants and the Nitwits, Alvin and the Chipmunks, The Berenstain Bears, Cro, and Pound Puppies.
Her presence extended to children’s programming, including her recurring role as Ruthie on Sesame Street and a voice role in The Adventures of Elmo in Grouchland. She brought warmth, humor, and relatability to every project she joined, helping generations of viewers grow up with laughter.
Buzzi also appeared in animated and short films such as It’s Tough to Be a Bird and Pound Puppies and the Legend of Big Paw. She embraced television’s golden era while adapting effortlessly to voice work in the evolving media landscape.
Film Roles and Later Appearances
Beyond television, Buzzi appeared in a range of films, showcasing her comedic range and versatility. Her film credits include Freaky Friday (1976), The Villain (1979), Surf II (1984), Up Your Alley (1989), The Best of Elmo (1994), and Glenn’s Gotta Go! (2005).
Though primarily known for comedy, Buzzi’s film roles often allowed her to portray quirky, lovable characters that added humor and heart to every scene. As her career progressed, she shifted to more voice roles and limited public appearances, especially following her retirement from entertainment around 2022.
Personal Life, Health Challenges, and Philanthropy
In her later years, Ruth faced numerous health setbacks, including multiple strokes and the onset of dementia, which she publicly acknowledged in 2022 through a humorous and touching post on X (formerly Twitter). “Some people have strokes of luck; I had the other kind,” she wrote, displaying the same wit that defined her career.
Buzzi spent her final years in hospice care, surrounded by close family. She and her husband, Kent Perkins, were married for over 40 years. Together, they shared not only a personal life but also business ventures and philanthropic projects.
They lived in a stunning Texas estate valued at $8 million, a 9,000-square-foot property filled with memorabilia and vintage elegance. Their car collection, which included models from Rolls-Royce, Bentley, and Jaguar, was estimated at another $8 million.
A passionate advocate for charitable causes, Buzzi supported organizations like Utopia Animal Rescue Ranch. She and Perkins also co-founded the Sunset Charity Foundation, which provided financial and emotional support to large families and single parents.
Lasting Legacy
Ruth Buzzi’s career was built not just on talent, but on consistency, kindness, and charisma. Her role in shaping female-driven comedy is significant—she brought physical comedy, timing, and unforgettable characters to mainstream television at a time when few women were given equal spotlight in the genre.
Her accolades and honors speak for themselves, but it’s the laughter she brought to millions that will remain her most enduring contribution. Buzzi leaves behind a generation of fans who grew up watching her, and a comedy legacy that continues to inspire performers today.
