Gone too soon: Remember "Hee Haw" star Lulu Roman? Here’s the heartbreaking news shaking fans everywhere
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The world of entertainment has lost another beloved legend.
Lulu Roman, the unforgettable star of the classic sketch comedy series Hee Haw, has passed away at the age of 78.
Her death has left a profound sense of loss among fans, friends, and colleagues who cherished her vibrant spirit, her humor, and her remarkable resilience.
Born Bertha Louise Hable in 1942, Roman’s story began with adversity.
She entered life in a home for unwed mothers and was soon placed in a Dallas orphanage, where she grew up facing the challenges of a thyroid condition that led to lifelong struggles with her weight.
Despite enduring relentless teasing and never being adopted, Roman emerged with a gift that would one day capture America’s heart: the ability to make people laugh.
Ben Laurro, Roman’s former publicist, described her journey to PEOPLE, saying, "Lulu Roman was unsung. She endured much adversity in her life that helped her become a joy to others."
Her infectious humor and larger-than-life personality would land her a starring role on Hee Haw, where she became a household name alongside country music legend Buck Owens.
Hee Haw, which premiered in 1969 and ran for 23 seasons, made Roman a familiar face in American homes. She once joked that she was "hired to be the fat girl" on the show.
However, behind the laughter, Roman faced personal battles. In 1971, her struggles with drug use forced her departure from the show at the height of its success.
Roman’s life took a powerful turn in 1973 when she embraced Christianity, a decision she credited with saving her life.
Her new path led to a thriving career as a gospel singer, culminating in her induction into the Country Gospel Music Hall of Fame in 1999.
Her memoir, published in 2019, offered a candid look into her triumphs and tribulations.
Roman's talent transcended Hee Haw. She starred in the spinoff series Hee Haw Honeys alongside Kathie Lee Gifford and Misty Rowe.
She also made guest appearances in popular shows like The Love Boat and Touched by an Angel, and appeared in the 1972 action thriller Corky opposite Robert Blake.
Misty Rowe, reflecting on her bond with Roman, shared with The Hollywood Reporter, "Lulu was a gift in my life. She played my mother twice and yet she was just 3 years older than me.
We were Gossipy Girls and now Lulu is my angel in heaven. I thank God for her time here on Earth, and I know we will all see her again in that big Kornfield in the sky someday."
Roman’s kindness extended far beyond the stage and screen. Laurro emphasized that Roman had "profound kindness and empathy for the broken-hearted or lonely because she walked that path herself."
Her fans meant the world to her, and she treasured the connection she maintained with them over the decades.
Tragically, Roman’s youngest son, Justin, passed away in 2017. Roman spent her final year living in Bellingham, Washington, with her son Damon, who was by her side when she passed on April 23.
As of now, the cause of her death has not been publicly disclosed.
Lulu Roman’s story is a testament to resilience, faith, and the healing power of laughter.
As we remember her, we celebrate a woman who, despite life’s trials, chose joy and gave it freely to others.
Read more:
Did Lulu’s humor brighten your day? Were you touched by her gospel music? Share your memories, tributes, and reflections in the comments below. Together, let's celebrate the enduring spirit of a woman who taught us all that laughter, faith, and love are the true treasures of life.
Lulu Roman, the unforgettable star of the classic sketch comedy series Hee Haw, has passed away at the age of 78.
Her death has left a profound sense of loss among fans, friends, and colleagues who cherished her vibrant spirit, her humor, and her remarkable resilience.
Born Bertha Louise Hable in 1942, Roman’s story began with adversity.
She entered life in a home for unwed mothers and was soon placed in a Dallas orphanage, where she grew up facing the challenges of a thyroid condition that led to lifelong struggles with her weight.
Despite enduring relentless teasing and never being adopted, Roman emerged with a gift that would one day capture America’s heart: the ability to make people laugh.
Ben Laurro, Roman’s former publicist, described her journey to PEOPLE, saying, "Lulu Roman was unsung. She endured much adversity in her life that helped her become a joy to others."
Her infectious humor and larger-than-life personality would land her a starring role on Hee Haw, where she became a household name alongside country music legend Buck Owens.
She was a gospel singer, comedian, and one of the stars of the show Hee Haw. Image Source: NewsChannel 5 / Youtube
Hee Haw, which premiered in 1969 and ran for 23 seasons, made Roman a familiar face in American homes. She once joked that she was "hired to be the fat girl" on the show.
However, behind the laughter, Roman faced personal battles. In 1971, her struggles with drug use forced her departure from the show at the height of its success.
Roman’s life took a powerful turn in 1973 when she embraced Christianity, a decision she credited with saving her life.
Her new path led to a thriving career as a gospel singer, culminating in her induction into the Country Gospel Music Hall of Fame in 1999.
Her memoir, published in 2019, offered a candid look into her triumphs and tribulations.
Roman's talent transcended Hee Haw. She starred in the spinoff series Hee Haw Honeys alongside Kathie Lee Gifford and Misty Rowe.
She also made guest appearances in popular shows like The Love Boat and Touched by an Angel, and appeared in the 1972 action thriller Corky opposite Robert Blake.
Misty Rowe, reflecting on her bond with Roman, shared with The Hollywood Reporter, "Lulu was a gift in my life. She played my mother twice and yet she was just 3 years older than me.
We were Gossipy Girls and now Lulu is my angel in heaven. I thank God for her time here on Earth, and I know we will all see her again in that big Kornfield in the sky someday."
Roman’s kindness extended far beyond the stage and screen. Laurro emphasized that Roman had "profound kindness and empathy for the broken-hearted or lonely because she walked that path herself."
Her fans meant the world to her, and she treasured the connection she maintained with them over the decades.
Tragically, Roman’s youngest son, Justin, passed away in 2017. Roman spent her final year living in Bellingham, Washington, with her son Damon, who was by her side when she passed on April 23.
As of now, the cause of her death has not been publicly disclosed.
Lulu Roman’s story is a testament to resilience, faith, and the healing power of laughter.
As we remember her, we celebrate a woman who, despite life’s trials, chose joy and gave it freely to others.
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