We are saddened to learn that comedy legend Ruth Buzzi has passed away.
Best known for variety show Rowan and Martin’s Laugh-In, Buzzi originated characters like the spinster Gladys Ormphby, as well as her appearances on Dean Martin’s celebrity roasts.
As is true with almost any comedy legend, Buzzi has had some run-ins with the Muppets. Actually, more than just run-ins. Buzzi is the only celebrity who can claim to have hosted The Muppet Show and appeared as a series regular on Sesame Street.
Buzzi appeared in the first season of The Muppet Show, fighting Sweetums while singing “Can’t Take My Eyes Off of You,” tickling Kermit in a talk spot, turning the tables during an interrogation, and performing yoga during a panel discussion. It’s a delightful episode, with several classic moments, and Buzzi is hilarious throughout.
In 1993, Buzzi returned to the Muppet world as “Ruthie,” the owner of the Finders Keepers shop during the Around the Corner years of Sesame Street. She stuck around through 1999, also reprising her character in Elmo in Grouchland.
On top of all this, she made a brief appearance in The Muppets Go Hollywood attending the red carpet event, as the voice of Suzie Kabloozie in several Sesame Street inserts, and as her character Gladys Ormphby in the celebrity video for “A New Way to Walk.”
Ruth Buzzi’s history is intertwined with the Muppets, and we’re pleased that she’s given us so much quality work over the years.
Click here to help us remember Ruth Buzzi on the ToughPigs Discord!
by Joe Hennes – [email protected]
