Ruth Ann Buzzi (July 24, 1936 – May 1, 2025) was an American actress and comedian recognized for her work on stage, in films, and on television. She became widely known for her performances on the comedy-variety show Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In from 1968 to 1973, where her comedic characters earned critical acclaim.
For her contributions, she received a Golden Globe Award and earned five Emmy Award nominations. Buzzi’s career established her as a prominent figure in American comedy, admired for her lasting influence and versatile talent.
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Ruth Buzzi Net Worth
Ruth Buzzi had a net worth of $25 million at the time of her death. Her first national recognition on television came on The Garry Moore Show in 1964, shortly after Carol Burnett was replaced by Dorothy Loudon.
She appeared as “Shakundala the Silent”, a bumbling magician’s assistant to her comedy partner Dom DeLuise, who played “Dominic the Great.”
Early Life
Ruth Ann Buzzi (July 24, 1936 – May 1, 2025) was an American actress and comedian who worked on stage, in films, and on television.
She gained fame on the comedy-variety show Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In (1968–1973), where her sharp comedic timing and memorable characters made her a standout. For her work, she earned a Golden Globe Award and received five Emmy nominations. Widely celebrated for her humor and versatility, Buzzi became one of the most recognizable faces in American comedy history.
Career
Before graduation, Ruth Ann Buzzi was already a union actress performing in musical and comedy revues. At 19, she began her show business career touring with singer Rudy Vallée in a live musical and comedy act during her college summer break, which earned her an Actors’ Equity Association union card.
After graduation, she moved to New York City, where she was immediately cast in a lead role in an off-Broadway musical revue, the first of 19 productions in which she performed, showcasing her versatile talent.
Personal life
Ruth Ann Buzzi lived with her husband, actor Kent Perkins, on a 600-acre (240 ha) cattle and horse ranch near Stephenville, Texas. They were passionate automobile collectors, focusing on post-war English vehicles such as Bentley, Rolls-Royce, and Jaguar, alongside American convertibles and muscle cars.
Several of their cars were donated or loaned to the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles, including a red, fuel-injected 1957 Chevrolet convertible, exhibited from 1993 to 2011 as part of a display honoring Steve McQueen’s cars.
What was Ruth Buzzi known for?
Ruth Buzzi is best known for her work on “Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In,” where her character Gladys Ormphby became a cultural icon. Her comedic talent made her a household name, earning her critical acclaim, including a Golden Globe and five Emmy nominations.
Conclusion
Ruth Buzzi’s journey from “Laugh-In” to a life enriched with laughter and wealth illustrates a career built on talent, resilience, and smart financial decisions. With a net worth of $20 million, her legacy in comedy is not just measured by her financial success but also by the joy she has brought to audiences worldwide.
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FAQs about Ruth Buzzi
- How did Ruth Buzzi accumulate her net worth? Buzzi’s net worth was accumulated through her successful acting career, voice acting, stage performances, and strategic investments alongside her husband.
- What awards has Ruth Buzzi won? Buzzi won a Golden Globe for her work on “Laugh-In” and has been nominated for five Emmys throughout her career.
- What is Ruth Buzzi’s most famous character? Her most famous character is undoubtedly Gladys Ormphby from “Laugh-In.”
- What kind of investments has Ruth Buzzi made? Buzzi and her husband have invested in real estate, a car collection including postwar vehicles from England, oil and gas wells, and more.
- What charities does Ruth Buzzi support? Buzzi is actively involved in charity work, supporting organizations like the Make-A-Wish Foundation, St. Jude’s Hospital, and the Utopia Animal Rescue Ranch.
