US comedian had ovarian cancer

Oddball musical comedian Judy Tenuta  has died at the age of 72.

The American performer, known for her brash and camp accordion-playing Love Goddess persona, has been suffering from ovarian cancer.

An LGBT icon, she received two Grammy nominations for best comedy album and lent her distinctive voice to many animated shows, including playing Edna on Duckman, Munch Kelly on Cow and Chicken  and herself in Dr. Katz, Professional Therapist,

Among those paying tribute were ‘Weird Al’ Yankovic, who collaborated with her a number of times.

He said: ‘Devastated to hear of the passing of my dear, dear friend, the lovely Miss Judy Tenuta. I can't believe she's gone. Earth has truly lost a goddess.’

Spinal Tap and Better Call Saul actor Michael McKean added: ‘RIP Judy Tenuta. One of a kind. Damn.’

And Emo Philips shared an anecdote: ‘After a show, the comic who opened for her is driving her to their next gig; as they’re passing cornfields at 2 AM he asks, "So what did you think of my act" & she replies, "Ask me again when we get a bit closer to town".

Tenuta, who died in Studio City, California, is survived by her partner Vern Pang.

Here she is at work: 

Published: 7 Oct 2022