Renowned Sex Therapist Dr. Ruth Westheimer Dies at 96

Renowned sex therapist and talk show host Dr. Ruth Westheimer, beloved for her candid discussions on sex and intimacy, passed away on Friday at the age of 96.

Dr. Ruth, a Holocaust survivor born in Frankfurt, Germany, became a cultural icon for her non-judgmental and open approach to sexual health. She authored over 40 books, including the best-seller “Sex for Dummies,” and hosted the popular radio program “Sexually Speaking” in the 1980s, which later became nationally syndicated.

Her work aimed to demystify sex and promote healthy conversations about intimacy. Dr. Ruth’s television program, “The Dr. Ruth Show,” and her nationally syndicated advice column further cemented her status as a trusted voice in sexual health.

In addition to her media presence, Dr. Ruth frequently appeared on talk shows such as The Howard Stern Radio Show, the Dr. Oz Show, Nightline, the Tonight Show, and Late Night with David Letterman. Her dedication to educating the public on sexual health earned her the role of New York’s honorary ambassador to loneliness, appointed by Governor Kathy Hochul last November.

Born Karola Ruth Siegel in 1928, Dr. Ruth was sent to Switzerland at the age of ten to escape the Kristallnacht pogroms. She never saw her parents again, believing they perished in the Auschwitz concentration camp.

Dr. Ruth’s legacy is one of resilience, education, and compassion. Her contributions to sexual health and her efforts to reduce loneliness have left an indelible mark on society. Her warmth, wisdom, and commitment to open dialogue will be remembered and cherished by many.