Judy Belushi Pisano, Widow of Comedian John Belushi, Dies at 73

Judy Belushi Pisano attends the ceremony posthumously honoring her late husband, actor John Belushi, with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in Hollywood, Calif., on April 1, 2004. Vince Bucci/Getty Images

Judith “Judy” Belushi Pisano—the widow of the late comedian John Belushi, an original cast member of “Saturday Night Live”—has died at the age of 73 following a years-long battle with cancer.

Ms. Belushi Pisano passed away on July 5 while surrounded by her loved ones, the actress’s son, Luke, confirmed on Instagram.

“It is with heavy hearts that we say goodbye to our sweet Judy,” he wrote. “As many of you know, my mom was a special person. She lead [sic] her life with unconditional love, resilience and grace. There really wasn’t anyone like her.”

“In my heart, our love will last forever,” Mr. Pisano added.

The official Instagram account for Mr. Belushi, managed by the late comedian’s estate, issued a touching tribute to Ms. Belushi Pisano online, writing: “Our hearts are heavy as we say goodbye to our sweet Judy.”

The post, dated July 6, was shared alongside a carousel of images featuring Mr. Belushi and Ms. Belushi Pisano together. The former couple wed in 1976 and were married until the “Animal House” star died in 1982 at the age of 33 from a drug overdose. Ms. Belushi Pisano married film producer Victor Pisano in 1990, but they separated 20 years later.

“Her unwavering dedication and creative genius alongside Dan Aykroyd and John Belushi gave birth to ‘The Blues Brothers,’ a timeless testament to the power of music and laughter,” the statement continues, referencing the two comedians’ blues and soul band, The Blues Brothers, which inspired the 1980’s comedy film of the same name.

“In the years following John’s passing in 1982, Judy honored his life and championed his legacy and Blues Brothers brand. As we bid farewell, we pledge to continue her work, ensuring that John’s legacy, and the Blues Brothers will never fade,” the tribute reads.

“There was no one like her. Judy made everyone feel loved. She was nonjudgmental, light, funny and pure. You could be truly yourself around her, that alone was a gift,” the statement concludes. “The Belushi and Pisano families will carry your love in their hearts forever.”

Remembering Judy Belushi Pisano

According to The Martha’s Vineyard Times, Ms. Belushi Pisano was diagnosed with endometrial cancer in 2020 and was admitted into hospice care last year.

Endometrial cancer, or endometrial carcinoma, develops in the cells that line the uterus, also known as the endometrium, according to the American Cancer Society. Endometrial cancer, the most common form of uterine cancer, is typically diagnosed in post-menopausal women over the age of 60.

As news of Ms. Belushi Pisano’s death spread online, many of her friends, family, and fans paid tribute to the late star, including Mr. Aykroyd, who took to X to express his sorrow over her loss.

“Grieving the passing of our Blues Sister Judy Belushi, whose intelligence, humor, bright spirit and business acumen have kept the legend of [The Blues Brothers] alive all these years,” he wrote. “I know that John was there to embrace her when she went through.”

Actress Lauren-Marie Taylor, who appeared in the 1981 film Neighbors starring Mr. Belushi and Mr. Aykroyd, commented on the Instagram post penned by Mr. Belushi’s estate, writing: “Godspeed, Judy. You were always very kind to me during the filming of Neighbors. What an amazing couple finally back together again.”

Actor Rob Belushi, the son of Jim Belushi, Mr. Belushi’s brother, also commented on the post, calling Ms. Belushi Pisano “the greatest woman from another world.” He added: “I love you forever aunt judy b.”

“So sad to hear this. Rest in Peace, Judy,” wrote actor Michael Chernus, while director and film producer Judd Apatow—known for his work on the television series “Girls” and the 2005 film “The 40-Year-Old Virgin”—sent his love to Ms. Belushi Pisano’s family.

Singer-songwriter Stephen Bishop wrote on X that he was “devastated” to hear of Ms. Belushi Pisano’s passing.

“Her love for her husband John Belushi, his career, and his legacy was unmatched,” he wrote, sharing that he had fond memories of working alongside the former couple.

“She was always kind to me and stayed in touch through the years,” he continued. “I so enjoyed seeing her at Animal House reunions. My memories of her are filled with warmth and affection. I'll always cherish them. My sincere condolences to both the Pisano and Belushi families. She will be greatly missed.”

According to Mr. Luke Pisano’s Instagram post, a celebration of life ceremony will be held in Chilmark, Massachusetts, later this year, following Ms. Belushi Pisano’s burial service.

In addition to her son, Luke, Ms. Belushi Pisano is survived by her children, Vanessa, Rebecca, and Jessica, six grandchildren, and three siblings.