John’s official social media pages announced Judy’s death on Saturday, July 6
Judy Belushi-Pisano, the widow of John Belushi and a producer and actress known for her work on National Lampoon’s Animal House and The Blues Brothers, has passed away at 73 years old.
John Belushi’s official Instagram and Facebook pages shared the sorrowful news on Saturday, July 6. They celebrated Judy’s artistic legacy, notably her significant contributions alongside her late husband. Although the announcement didn’t specify the cause of death, The Martha’s Vineyard Times noted that Judy had battled cancer for a long time.
“Today, our hearts are heavy as we say goodbye to our sweet Judy,” read the heartfelt message. “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 the Blues Brothers brand,” the tribute continued. “As we bid farewell, we pledge to continue her work, ensuring that John’s legacy, and the Blues Brothers will never fade.”
The tribute also emphasized how unique Judy was. “There was no one like her,” it stated. “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.”
John’s Facebook page also shared a collection of photos showing Judy and John over the years, highlighting the special moments they shared. One notable image captured Judy with a guitar slung around her neck, a nod to her multifaceted creativity.
Friend and musician Stephen Bishop, who worked with Judy and John in The Blues Brothers and contributed music to Animal House, posted his own tribute on Instagram. He shared a photo of himself with the late couple, reminiscing fondly.
“I have fond memories of working and hanging out with Judy and John. She was always kind to me and stayed in touch through the years. I so enjoyed seeing her at Animal House reunions,” he wrote. “My memories of her are filled with warmth and affection. I’ll always cherish them.”
Judy and John met during high school in Wheaton, Illinois, and married in 1976. In an interview in 2020, she recalled a touching moment with her late husband. He had warned her, “You should probably break up with me because I want to be an actor and I’ll probably never make any money.” Judy, however, believed in his potential. “But I always thought he’d do well,” she said.
Before John’s untimely death from a drug overdose in 1982 at the age of 33, the couple shared many professional experiences. Judy had minor roles in Animal House and The Blues Brothers. They also frequently hosted Saturday Night Live afterparties at their home during John’s time on the show from 1975 to 1979.
“John wasn’t perfect,” Judy remembered in her 2020 interview. “But he was a full human being — caring and adventurous and kind. And he not only made people laugh, he made them feel.”
After John’s passing, Judy continued to lead an active life in the arts. She later married producer Victor Pisano in 1990, but they divorced in 2010. According to The Martha’s Vineyard Times, Judy continually engaged in creative ventures, organizing local screenings and even collaborating with Dan Aykroyd on different projects.
Judy is survived by her children and grandchildren, who will carry forward her legacy.
