What Happened to Gilda Radner? What Did Gilda Radner Die From? What Year Did Gilda Radner Die?
by Aishwarya R
Updated Jun 11, 2023
Who was Gilda Radner?
Gilda Susan Radner, a radiant force of talent, graced the world with her presence from June 28, 1946, to May 20, 1989. She was a shining star—a remarkable American actress, comedian, writer, and singer. From the very beginning, Radner was part of the electrifying ensemble known as the "Not Ready For Prime Time Players" on the legendary NBC sketch comedy series Saturday Night Live. With her unwavering brilliance, she captivated audiences from 1975 until her departure in 1980.
In her comedic routines on SNL, Radner possessed a magical ability to flawlessly parody television stereotypes. She fearlessly embodied characters like the witty advice specialists and the charismatic news anchors, leaving a trail of laughter in her wake. It was no surprise that in 1978, Radner's unparalleled talent earned her an Emmy Award for her outstanding performances on the show. But her accomplishments didn't stop there.
Radner's extraordinary talent extended beyond the small screen. She brought those beloved characters to life in her sensational one-woman show on Broadway in 1979, capturing the hearts and imaginations of theatergoers. Her presence on SNL solidified her status as an iconic figure in the illustrious history of American comedy.
Even after her untimely departure, Radner's brilliance continued to shine. Posthumously, she was bestowed with a Grammy Award in 1990, a testament to her enduring impact on the world of entertainment. In 1992, she was rightfully inducted into the prestigious Michigan Women's Hall of Fame, a recognition of her immense contributions. And in 2003, a star bearing her name was forever etched into the grandeur of the Hollywood Walk of Fame, a lasting tribute to her irreplaceable talent.
Gilda Radner's light may have dimmed, but her spirit lives on in the hearts of those who were touched by her laughter, her wit, and her incomparable zest for life. She remains an eternal muse, a source of inspiration, and a reminder of the extraordinary power of laughter.
What Happened to Gilda Radner?
Gilda Radner, a beloved comedian and actress, was admitted to Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles on May 17, 1989. She was scheduled to undergo a CT scan and was given a sedative for the procedure. Tragically, during the scan, Radner slipped into a coma from which she did not regain consciousness. She passed away three days later, on May 20, 1989, with her husband, Gene Wilder, by her side. The cause of her death was ovarian cancer.
In September 1988, Gilda Radner underwent tests that indicated no signs of cancer. However, as a precautionary measure, she began a maintenance chemotherapy treatment to extend her remission. Unfortunately, just three months later, in December, Radner received the devastating news that the cancer had returned.
On January 28, 1989, Gilda Radner and Gene Wilder were recorded on video as they entered the ceremony for the 46th annual Golden Globe Awards. This footage was later aired on Entertainment Tonight following Radner's passing.
The news of Radner's death broke while comedian Steve Martin was rehearsing for his guest-host role on the season finale of Saturday Night Live. The show's performers, crew, and even creator Lorne Michaels were unaware of the severity of Radner's condition. Martin, visibly upset, abandoned his planned opening monologue and instead introduced a video clip from a 1978 sketch in which he and Radner had parodied Fred Astaire and Cyd Charisse in the famous dance routine from the movie "The Band Wagon."
After the clip, Martin paid tribute to Radner, expressing how much they missed her and remarking on how young they both looked in the sketch. G. E. Smith, Radner's first husband and Saturday Night Live's bandleader, wore a black armband throughout the episode as a symbol of mourning.
Gilda Radner was laid to rest at Long Ridge Union Cemetery in Stamford, Connecticut. Her death left a significant void in the entertainment industry, as she was cherished for her comedic talents and vibrant personality. Radner's legacy continues to inspire and her contributions to comedy are remembered fondly by her fans and colleagues.
What Did Gilda Radner Die From?
Gilda Radner passed away from ovarian cancer. While filming "Haunted Honeymoon" in the United Kingdom in 1985, Gilda Radner began experiencing extreme fatigue and pain in her upper legs. She sought medical help, but for a period of ten months, various doctors, mostly in Los Angeles, provided incorrect diagnoses, leaving her in continued pain.
During this challenging time, Radner faced additional hardships. A book about Saturday Night Live, written by Hill and Weingrad, was published, revealing details about her struggles with an eating disorder. Furthermore, "Haunted Honeymoon" turned out to be a financial failure, grossing only $8,000,000 in the United States. It debuted at number 8 in the box-office rankings but quickly slipped to number 14. Radner expressed her disappointment in her book, "It's Always Something."
Finally, on October 21, 1986, Radner received a diagnosis of stage IV ovarian cancer. She promptly underwent surgery, including a hysterectomy, and on October 26, surgeons removed a tumor the size of a grapefruit from her abdomen. Radner then commenced chemotherapy and radiation therapy, which caused intense physical and emotional pain, as she recounted in "It's Always Something."
Shortly after her diagnosis, the National Enquirer published a headline declaring "Gilda Radner In Life-Death Struggle" without seeking her comment. The magazine asserted that she was on the verge of death. Radner lamented the impact this had on her family and friends, as well as herself. In response, her husband, Gene Wilder, issued a press release stating that she had undergone surgery for ovarian cancer, and her prognosis was optimistic. The Enquirer ceased its coverage of Radner's story, as they preferred negative news.
Radner had a final encounter with her Saturday Night Live castmates at Laraine Newman's 36th birthday party in March 1988. According to Bill Murray, upon hearing that Radner was about to leave the party, he and Dan Aykroyd carried her around the Los Angeles house to allow her to bid farewell to everyone.
What Year did Gilda Radner Die?
Gilda Radner died on 20 May 1989. Following Gilda Radner's passing, her husband Gene Wilder took significant steps to honor her memory and raise awareness about ovarian cancer. He established the Gilda Radner Hereditary Cancer Program at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center. The program aimed to screen individuals at high risk, particularly women of Ashkenazi Jewish descent, and conduct diagnostic tests. Wilder testified before a Congressional committee, emphasizing that Radner's condition had been misdiagnosed.
He believed that if doctors had delved deeper into her family background, they would have discovered a history of ovarian cancer, potentially leading to earlier intervention. Radner's death brought attention to the importance of early detection and familial epidemiology in ovarian cancer. The media coverage during the two years following her passing resulted in the registry of 450 families with familial ovarian cancer at the Familial Ovarian Cancer Registry, which is based at the Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center in Buffalo, New York.
In 1990, the registry was renamed the Gilda Radner Familial Ovarian Cancer Registry (GRFOCR), and in 2013, it was renamed the Familial Ovarian Cancer Registry. In collaboration with Steven Piver, one of Radner's medical consultants, Wilder published the book "Gilda's Disease: Sharing Personal Experiences and a Medical Perspective on Ovarian Cancer" in 1996.
In 1991, Gilda's Club was founded by Joanna Bull, Radner's cancer psychotherapist, along with Gene Wilder (a cancer survivor himself) and broadcaster Joel Siegel. Gilda's Club established a network of clubhouses where individuals living with cancer, along with their friends and families, could gather to learn how to cope with the challenges of the disease. The first club opened in New York City in 1995. The organization took its name from Radner's remark that cancer had granted her "membership to an elite club I'd rather not belong to." Radner's story can be further explored in her book, "It's Always Something."
Numerous Gilda's Clubs have been established across the United States and Canada. In July 2009, Gilda's Club Worldwide merged with The Wellness Community, another cancer support organization, to form the Cancer Support Community (CSC). While some local affiliates retained the name Gilda's Club, many adopted the name Cancer Support Community following the merger.
In 2002, ABC dedicated a three-hour block of programming to honor Gilda Radner. The evening featured a one-hour special, "Gilda Radner's Greatest Moments," hosted by Saturday Night Live alumna Molly Shannon. The special showcased highlights from Radner's career and included appearances by her friends and co-stars. Additionally, a television movie titled "Gilda Radner: It's Always Something," starring Jami Gertz as Radner, depicted her life.
Gilda Radner Early Life
Gilda Radner entered this world in Detroit, Michigan, embraced by the love of her Jewish parents, Henrietta (née Dworkin) and Herman Radner. Her mother worked as a legal secretary, while her father was a respected businessman. Radner shared in her autobiography the origin of her name, revealing that she was named after her grandmother whose name began with 'G,' but the inspiration for 'Gilda' came from a movie starring Glenn Ford and Rita Hayworth.
Interestingly, through her mother, Radner discovered she was a second cousin to the renowned business executive, Steve Ballmer. Growing up in Detroit, Radner found companionship in her nanny, Elizabeth Clementine Gillies, affectionately known as "Dibby," who became the basis for her beloved character, Emily Litella. Alongside her older brother, Michael, Radner navigated her childhood in the company of her father, who owned and operated the Seville Hotel in Detroit.
This vibrant establishment welcomed numerous nightclub performers and actors, providing Radner with a unique exposure to the world of entertainment. Her father's fondness for Broadway shows led to unforgettable trips to New York City, igniting Radner's passion for the stage. However, tragedy struck during Radner's formative years when her father was diagnosed with a brain tumor. The onset of symptoms was swift and unexpected, as he complained that his glasses were too tight.
Within a matter of days, he was confined to his bed, unable to communicate, and remained in that state until his passing two years later. In 1964, Radner completed her education at the University Liggett School in Detroit and embarked on a new chapter at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor. Her initial aspirations were centered around obtaining a degree in education, marking the beginning of her journey towards shaping young minds.
Gilda Radner's upbringing, marked by both joy and sorrow, laid the foundation for the incredible talent and resilience that would later make her a cherished icon in the world of comedy and entertainment.
Gilda Radner Husbands
Gilda Radner had two husbands in her life, each contributing to her journey in their own unique way.
G.E. Smith
Gilda Radner's first marriage was to guitarist G.E. Smith. Their union was brief, and the details surrounding their relationship are relatively scarce. Although their time together was short-lived, it played a part in shaping Gilda's perspective on love and relationships.
Gene Wilder
The most significant and enduring marriage in Gilda Radner's life was to the legendary actor Gene Wilder. Their love story was a beacon of joy and companionship, filled with laughter and shared dreams. Gilda and Gene first crossed paths on the set of the film "Hanky Panky" in 1982, and their undeniable chemistry led to a lifelong partnership. On September 18, 1984, Gilda Radner and Gene Wilder exchanged vows in Saint-Paul-de-Vence, France. Their connection was palpable, and their love radiated to those around them. Despite the challenges they faced, including Gilda's battle with ovarian cancer, their bond remained strong.
Gene Wilder stood by Gilda's side throughout her health struggles, offering unwavering support and care. He was there for her during the arduous rounds of chemotherapy and radiation treatments, showing a deep level of devotion and love. Tragically, on May 20, 1989, Gilda Radner passed away, leaving Gene Wilder devastated. The loss of his beloved wife left a profound void in his life. He carried the pain of her absence and felt a sense of responsibility to ensure that others would not suffer the same fate.
Driven by his grief and a desire to make a difference, Gene Wilder dedicated himself to raising awareness about ovarian cancer. He advocated for early detection and worked tirelessly to establish programs that would provide support and resources to those affected by the disease. In honor of Gilda's memory, Wilder testified before a House subcommittee in 1991, sharing his wife's misdiagnosis and pushing for improvements in medical care. He played a pivotal role in founding the Gilda Radner Hereditary Cancer Program, which aimed to screen high-risk individuals and conduct vital diagnostic tests at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center.
Furthermore, Gene Wilder established Gilda's Club in 1995, a haven for cancer patients and their families to find solace and support. This initiative grew into the Cancer Support Community, becoming the largest cancer support network in the United States. While Gene Wilder eventually found love again with Karen Boyer, he always held a special place in his heart for Gilda Radner. Her influence and their profound connection continued to shape his life, even as he embarked on a new chapter with Boyer.
Gilda Radner's marriages, particularly her union with Gene Wilder, stand as testaments to the power of love, resilience, and the enduring impact one person can have on another's life.
Gilda Radner Grave
On that solemn day, May 24, 1989, Gilda Radner was laid to rest in Connecticut, leaving behind a legacy that would resonate far beyond her time on this earth. Her untimely passing served as a catalyst, sparking a newfound public awareness of the critical importance of early detection and understanding the genetic links associated with ovarian cancer. A flame was ignited, igniting a movement of hope and determination in the face of adversity.
In the wake of her departure, a beacon of light emerged. The Roswell Park Cancer Institute in Buffalo, New York, established a remarkable research database, a living testament to Gilda's enduring spirit. This database, aptly named the Gilda Radner Familial Ovarian Cancer Registry, stands as a testament to her unwavering courage and serves as a guiding star in the quest to unravel the mysteries of this formidable disease.
Gilda Radner's remarkable journey may have come to an end, but her legacy lives on in the hearts of countless individuals. Her indomitable spirit continues to inspire researchers, physicians, and families alike to join forces in the battle against ovarian cancer. Through her memory, we find solace and a renewed sense of purpose, forging ahead with unwavering determination to conquer this formidable foe.
In the face of adversity, Gilda Radner shone brightly as a beacon of hope. Her legacy transcends her time, reminding us that even in the darkest of moments, we have the power to ignite change, raise awareness, and pave the way for a future where ovarian cancer is no longer a silent threat. Let us carry her torch, honoring her memory by championing early detection, genetic understanding, and unwavering support for those impacted by this relentless disease.
Gilda Radner's journey may have ended, but her legacy continues to blaze a trail towards a future where ovarian cancer is conquered, and lives are saved. Let us march forward with unwavering resolve, united in our pursuit of a world where no one will have to face this battle alone.
What Happened to Gilda Radner - FAQs
Gilda Radner passed away from ovarian cancer.
Gilda Radner was an American actress, comedian, writer, and singer. She gained prominence as one of the original cast members of the sketch comedy show "Saturday Night Live" (SNL) and became known for her memorable characters and comedic performances.
Gilda Radner portrayed several iconic characters on SNL, including Roseanne Roseannadanna, a humorous news commentator; Emily Litella, an elderly hearing-impaired woman who often misunderstood news topics; and Lisa Loopner, a socially awkward teenager. Her performances showcased her versatility and comedic brilliance.
Gilda Radner made significant contributions to the comedy landscape, particularly through her work on SNL. She pioneered a style of character-driven humor, expertly satirizing various television stereotypes and bringing them to life with her infectious energy and comedic timing. Her performances helped pave the way for future generations of female comedians.
Gilda Radner's legacy extends beyond her comedic talent. Her untimely death from ovarian cancer at a young age brought attention to the importance of early detection and genetic connections in the disease. Her memory is honored through initiatives like the Gilda Radner Familial Ovarian Cancer Registry and the Gilda's Club network, which provide support and resources to those affected by cancer. Radner's impact on comedy and her advocacy for health awareness continue to inspire and resonate with audiences worldwide.