Actor And Widow Of John Belushi Has Passed Away

Judith Belushi-Pisano, widow of John Belushi, passed away on July 5. She was 73 years old. The Martha’s Vineyard Times reported she had a long battle with cancer.

Pisano was an actress and producer. She worked with John Belushi on “The Blues Brothers” and “National Lampoon’s Animal House.”

Pisano was married to John Belushi from 1973 until his death in 1982. Then, she married Victor Pisano from 1990 until their divorce in 2010.

The official Facebook page for John Belushi posted about Judith’s death on July 6:

Today, our hearts are heavy as we say goodbye to our sweet Judy. 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.

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.

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 Belushi and Pisano families will carry your love in their hearts forever.

Before his death from a drug overdose at the age of 33, in 1982, the couple worked together. She had minor roles compared to his major roles in “Animal House” and “The Blues Brothers.” In addition, the couple enjoyed hosting Saturday Night Live (SNL) afterparties at their house. John was part of the SNL cast for a few years.

Judy talked to People back in 2020, around the time of Showtime’s “Belushi” documentary release. She and John met in Wheaton, Illinois during high school. He had suggested to her that she “should probably break up with me because I want to be an actor and I’ll probably never make any money.” However, she always assumed he would excel.

Pisano is survived by her children and grandchildren.