Dr. Ruth Westheimer, the iconic TV sex therapist, passed away at the age of 96 in New York City. A Holocaust survivor born in Germany, Dr. Ruth became a pioneering figure in sex education, gaining widespread fame in the 1980s with her radio show “Sexually Speaking” on WYNY. This call-in program allowed listeners to send in questions that Dr. Ruth would address on air, establishing her as a trusted expert on sexual health.
Her candid and approachable style made “Sexually Speaking” immensely popular, leading to Dr. Ruth’s successful transition to television. She appeared on numerous prominent shows including “The Ellen DeGeneres Show,” “Late Night with David Letterman,” “Nightline,” “The Tonight Show,” and “The Dr. Oz Show.” Additionally, she made guest appearances playing herself on TV series like “Quantum Leap” and “Love Boat: The Next Wave.”
Dr. Ruth’s influence extended beyond radio and television as she authored several books, such as “Sex for Dummies,” “All in a Lifetime,” and “Musically Speaking: A Life Through Song.” Her work made significant contributions to public discussions about sex, promoting a healthy and open approach to sexual education.
Throughout her career, Dr. Ruth’s expertise and unique personality helped many people navigate their sexual health and relationships. Her death marks the end of an era, but her legacy in sex education continues to impact lives. Dr. Ruth will be remembered not only for her professional achievements but also for her resilience and dedication to improving the lives of others. Rest in peace, Dr. Ruth.
