Groundbreaking comedienne Phyllis Diller has died at the age of 95 in Los Angeles. Diller helped usher in an era of comedy in which men and women alike began to find the lighter side of their domestic lives. Thus far the cause of death has not been released.
Diller is considered a pioneer for female comics and Kathy Griffin was quick to tribute her via Twitter, writing: "Please recognize she paved the way single handedly for years for us female comedians."
An outpouring of affection for the Diller has starting since her passing with Andy Richter writing: "Sad to hear she died. A hero of mine." Dane Cook also paid tribute, calling her "a funny human being that brought tons of laughs to this world."
Diller didn't break into comedy until her 40s, after working in advertising writing. Speaking with Time in 1961, however, she says she was always funny:
"I was one of those life-of-the-party types," Diller said in 1965. "You'll find them in every bridge club, at every country club. People invited me to parties only because they knew I would supply some laughs. They still do."
by RTT Staff Writer
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