Judith Belushi Pisano, the devoted wife of the legendary comedian John Belushi and a pivotal force behind the cultural phenomenon of “The Blues Brothers,” passed away on Friday at the age of 73, succumbing to a long battle with cancer. Her passing marks the end of an era for those who cherished the comedic genius of John Belushi and the enduring appeal of the Blues Brothers.
Pisano was more than just the wife of John Belushi; she was a creative powerhouse in her own right, credited as an actress and producer on iconic productions like “The Blues Brothers” and “National Lampoon’s Animal House.” Her contributions behind the scenes were instrumental in shaping these comedic masterpieces that continue to resonate with audiences today. Her marriage to John Belushi in 1973 lasted until his untimely death in 1982, a period during which they were deeply intertwined in both personal and professional spheres. She later remarried to Victor Pisano in 1990, before divorcing in 2010.
The announcement of Judith Belushi Pisano’s death resonated deeply within the entertainment world and was shared on John Belushi’s official Instagram page, a platform she diligently managed in collaboration with the Belushi estate. The heartfelt post on Saturday morning served as a testament to her profound impact: “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,” it read. This statement underscores her crucial role in solidifying the Blues Brothers’ legacy, a brand synonymous with John Belushi’s energetic performances and comedic timing.
Beyond her direct involvement with “The Blues Brothers,” Judith Belushi Pisano dedicated herself to preserving and promoting John Belushi’s artistic heritage in the years following his death. The Instagram post further emphasized this commitment: “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.” Her efforts ensured that John Belushi’s name and the Blues Brothers’ music continued to reach new generations of fans.
Diagnosed with endometrial cancer in 2020, Judith Belushi Pisano faced her illness with the same strength and grace that characterized her life. Entering hospice care in 2023, she remained resilient until her final moments on Friday, surrounded by her loving family. Her son, Luke Pisano, poignantly described her as “a great mother, beloved sister, [and] a special person,” highlighting the personal warmth and affection she extended to those around her. He added, “We’re going to miss her company terribly,” reflecting the deep void her absence leaves in the lives of her family and friends.
Her connection to Martha’s Vineyard was also a significant part of her life story. She first visited Chilmark with John Belushi in 1974, instantly captivated by the island’s charm after hearing about it from a musician friend in Boston. “Just like everyone else, we fell in love with Lucy Vincent Beach,” Judith Belushi Pisano recalled in a 2013 interview with the Vineyard Gazette, expressing her deep appreciation for the island’s natural beauty. Even after John Belushi’s passing and the subsequent sale of their Chilmark summer home in the 1990s, Judith maintained a strong presence in Vineyard Haven.
Judith Belushi Pisano’s passion for the arts extended beyond her work related to John Belushi. She was an active member of the local arts scene on Martha’s Vineyard, including performing with the Island band Ukeladies. Even in her later years, she remained creatively engaged, working on an album that her son, Luke, plans to release posthumously, with local musician Ben Taylor leading the collaboration with Island artists. This project serves as a testament to her enduring creative spirit and her integration within the Martha’s Vineyard community.
Further demonstrating her commitment to both the arts and her late husband’s memory, Judith hosted events on the Island to benefit local organizations and honor John Belushi’s legacy. These included a screening of the documentary “John Belushi: Dancing on the Edge” to support Martha’s Vineyard Community Services and a performance with Dan Aykroyd benefiting the Martha’s Vineyard Playhouse. These initiatives showcase her dedication to giving back to her community while keeping John Belushi’s spirit alive.
Judith Belushi Pisano is survived by her children, Luke, Vanessa, Rebecca, and Jessica, and her grandchildren, Avery, Ella, Logan, Olivia, Henry, and Nico. She also leaves behind her siblings, Patricia Brewster, Pamela Jacklin, and Robert Jacklin. Her life was one marked by creativity, dedication to family and legacy, and a profound impact on the world of comedy and music through her association with John Belushi and her own individual endeavors. Her contributions will be remembered by fans of John Belushi, The Blues Brothers, and all who knew her for her warmth, humor, and unwavering spirit.
