Dr. Ruth Westheimer, the German-born sex therapist, became a household name thanks to her long-running radio show Sexually Speaking, where her candid and compassionate advice resonated with listeners across the country. Over the years, Dr. Ruth made a surprising yet beloved appearance in children’s television as the host of the educational puppet series Between the Lions, showcasing her versatility and lifelong commitment to teaching. In 2013, her remarkable journey was honored with a play titled Becoming Dr. Ruth, which explored her life story in an engaging and heartfelt way.
Before she gained fame as Dr. Ruth, she had already established herself academically, serving as a psychology professor at the University of Paris—a lesser-known chapter that highlights her deep roots in education and mental health. Throughout her personal life, Dr. Ruth experienced love and loss, having been married three times. Her third marriage was to Manfred Westheimer, with whom she shared a son, Joel. From her second marriage, she welcomed her daughter, Miriam. Family has always played a central role in Dr. Ruth’s life, just as much as her public mission to educate and empower others. And through it all, Dr. Ruth remained a symbol of resilience, wisdom, and warmth—proving that one person can truly make a difference across generations.
She truly became a cultural icon, you know, especially for the way she transformed public conversations around sexuality through her appearances on radio and TV. Over the years, her influence only grew stronger, and by 2019, her remarkable journey was beautifully captured in the documentary Ask Dr. Ruth, which centered on her life and legacy. People still talk about how she broke barriers, and honestly, her impact continues to resonate with so many. She wasn’t just a voice on the airwaves—she was a trailblazer who made a real difference.