Ruth Buzzi, the iconic actress best known for her role as Gladys Ormphby on ’60s and ’70s comedy series “Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In,” has passed away at the age of 88. The actress died Thursday at her home in Texas due to complications from Alzheimer’s disease.
Buzzi had a long and distinguished career spanning over 45 years, with more than 200 television appearances. She was a standout on “Laugh-In,” where she played Ormphby – a character described as a combination of schoolmarm, delicate codgerette, and battle-ax. Her most enduring role was in the show’s six seasons, which included the pilot.
Buzzi won a Golden Globe and was nominated for two Emmys for her work on “Laugh-In.” She was also known for her appearances on several celebrity roasts, including Dean Martin Celebrity Roasts in Las Vegas. Buzzi would frequently take out her purse to berate celebrities like Frank Sinatra and Lucille Ball.
Her unique energy and charm made her a standout in sketch comedy, capturing the absurdity of the era. Ruth Buzzi is remembered for her unapologetic portrayal of Gladys Ormphby, who embodied the overlooked and underappreciated.
Source: https://www.cleveland.com/entertainment/2025/05/iconic-star-from-classic-tv-comedy-series-dies.html