According to her publicist and friend Pierre Lehu, the television personality and best-selling author passed away on Friday at her New York City home, surrounded by her family.
In the 1980s, Westheimer—a psychiatrist in his 50s—became well-known on radio, television, and in bookshops by candidly discussing themes related to the bedroom that were previously forbidden.
The 4′ 7″ tall, German-accented celebrity, who supported contraception, promoted an honest discussion about taboo subjects that impacted her millions of fans.
Westheimer, who escaped Nazi Germany as a young child, viewed what two willing adults did in their own space without passing judgment.
Her charming demeanor and vast expertise propelled her local radio show, Sexually Speaking, into the national spotlight in the early 1980s.
Her popularity on radio created new opportunities, and in 1983 she penned Dr. Ruth’s Guide to Good Sex, the first of her more than 40 books that would demystify sex via humor and reason. Dr Ruth’s Game of Good Sex was a board game that was available.
