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The legacy of Dr. Ruth: A pioneer in sexual education and media
A life dedicated to breaking taboos
Ruth Westheimer, affectionately known as Dr. Ruth, was a trailblazer who brought candid discussions about sex into American living rooms. Her death at the age of 96 marks the end of an era, but her legacy continues to influence the way we talk about sex and relationships.
From a 15-minute segment to nationwide fame
Dr. Ruth’s journey began in 1980 with a modest 15-minute radio segment on WYNY in New York. The show, which aired at midnight on Saturdays, quickly gained popularity. By 1984, it had evolved into “The Dr. Ruth Show,” syndicated nationwide. Her transition to television was seamless, with shows like “Good Sex! With Dr. Ruth Westheimer” and “Ask Dr. Ruth” becoming household names.
For those interested in revisiting her groundbreaking work, you can watch the trailer for “Ask Dr. Ruth” here.
A media personality like no other
During the 1980s and 1990s, Dr. Ruth was a ubiquitous presence on television. She appeared on “The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson,” “Late Night With David Letterman,” and even “Hollywood Squares.” Her unique blend of expertise and humor made her a beloved figure. She also made guest appearances on shows like “Quantum Leap,” further cementing her status as a pop culture icon.
Overcoming a traumatic past
Born in Wiesenfeld, Germany, in 1928, Ruth Westheimer’s early life was marked by tragedy. Her father was taken by the Nazis and later killed at Auschwitz. At the age of 10, she was sent to a Swiss orphanage to escape the horrors of the Holocaust. Despite these challenges, she pursued her education with determination, eventually emigrating to Palestine and later to New York, where she earned her PhD in education.
A voice for women’s rights
Dr. Ruth’s frank discussions about sex played a crucial role in the women’s rights and abortion rights movements. She was a staunch advocate for women’s sexual satisfaction and autonomy. “From the beginning, I said a woman has the responsibility for her own sexual satisfaction,” she told NPR. Her work helped to normalize conversations about sex, making it easier for women to seek the information and support they needed.
A life portrayed on screen
Dr. Ruth’s life story has been the subject of both a documentary and an Off-Broadway play. The 2019 Hulu documentary “Ask Dr. Ruth” delves into her traumatic past and her rise to fame. It also shows her visiting the Holocaust memorial Yad Vashem in Jerusalem to research her family’s history. The 2013 play “Becoming Dr. Ruth” offers another intimate look at her extraordinary life.
For a deeper dive into her life, you can watch the trailer for “Becoming Dr. Ruth” here.
A lasting impact
Even in her nineties, Dr. Ruth remained active on social media, teaching, and making media appearances. Her work has left an indelible mark on the field of sexual education and continues to inspire new generations.
Dr. Ruth was married three times, with her last husband, Fred Westheimer, passing away in 1997. She is survived by two children and four grandchildren.
As we reflect on Dr. Ruth’s life and legacy, it’s clear that her contributions to sexual education and media have had a profound impact. Her willingness to tackle taboo subjects with honesty and humor has paved the way for more open and informed discussions about sex and relationships.
