Beloved ‘Laugh-In’ Comedian Passed Away At 88

Ruth Buzzi, famous for her role as Gladys Ormphby on Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In, died peacefully at 88 in Texas after a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease. Born in Rhode Island and raised in Connecticut, she was the daughter of a Swiss sculptor and graduated with honors from Pasadena Playhouse. Early in her career, she toured with Rudy Vallee and worked with stars like Dom DeLuise and Carol Burnett.

She gained fame on The Garry Moore Show and The Steve Allen Comedy Hour before becoming a staple on Laugh-In, appearing in every episode and earning a Golden Globe and five Emmy nominations for her role. Ruth also performed on Broadway, acted in films like Freaky Friday, and appeared on popular TV shows.