Ruth Buzzi, Comedian Known for 'Laugh-In's' Gladys, Dies at 88

Ruth Buzzi, the actress and comedian who brought the perpetually suspicious Gladys Ormphby to life on 'Rowan & Martin's Laugh-In,' passed away on Friday at the age of 88. Her death marks the end of an era for fans of classic television comedy.

Buzzi's Gladys, instantly recognizable with her tightly wound hair and ever-present purse, was a comedic force. The character, always wary of male attention, would often fend off unwanted advances with a swift swing of her handbag. This simple yet effective gag made Gladys a recurring and beloved figure on 'Laugh-In.'

Born in Westerly, Rhode Island, in 1936, Buzzi began her career in the entertainment industry in the early 1960s. She worked as a singer and dancer before finding her niche in comedy. 'Laugh-In,' which premiered in 1968, provided Buzzi with the perfect platform to showcase her talents. The show's fast-paced, irreverent humor resonated with audiences, and Buzzi quickly became one of its breakout stars.

While Gladys remained her most famous creation, Buzzi enjoyed a long and successful career beyond 'Laugh-In.' She appeared in numerous television shows, including 'Sesame Street,' 'The Carol Burnett Show,' and 'Murder, She Wrote.' She also lent her voice to animated series like 'The Smurfs' and 'Pound Puppies.' In addition to her television work, Buzzi performed on stage in productions such as 'Sweet Charity' and 'Guys and Dolls.'

Ruth Buzzi's contributions to comedy will be remembered for generations. Her portrayal of Gladys Ormphby, the purse-wielding spinster, remains a timeless comedic creation.