Ruth Buzzi!

Welcome to the Piece Of Advice Newsletter!

This week, we are talking about an often overlooked character in classic comedy, the great Ruth Buzzi!

If you’ve ever been hit in the face with a purse, comically, of course; you might owe thanks to Ruth Buzzi. Best known for her unforgettable work on “Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In”, Buzzi wielded her handbag like a comedic Excalibur, taking down bad behavior with the flair of a silent film legend. Her most famous character, “Gladys Ormphby”, shuffled into sketch comedy history as the patron saint of fed-up women, proving orthopedic shoes could be funny if worn with enough disdain.

Buzzi, who sadly passed away in May, was far more than just Gladys. A classically trained actress from the “Pasadena Playhouse”, she brought serious acting chops to her silliest roles. From shrill opera divas to deadpan counter clerks, Buzzi committed fully. Each character had a soul, even if that soul was yelling through a hairnet or muttering about the price of soup.

On “Laugh-In”, she mastered physical comedy and expressive timing. In an era of quick cuts and rapid-fire jokes, Buzzi made every reaction count. Her park bench scenes with Arte Johnson; he leered, she glared, he flirted, she smacked; were sketch comedy perfection. Somehow, they never got old, just sharper with each slap.

Offstage, she was a painter, an animal lover, and a sharp wit on social media well into her later years. Ruth Buzzi didn’t just do comedy; she defined it. And while the stage may be quieter now, the echo of that purse swinging through the air? That’s forever.

Piece Of Advice:

Giancarlo: What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

Ruth Buzzi: Lucille Ball told me, “Never discuss religion or politics in public, that will lose you a lot of fans.” I took her advice.

Thank you so much for tuning in with us! Next week I have a really cool one ready, see you then!

-Giancarlo