Ruth Westheimer’s Biography, Nationality, Age, Properties, Weight, Height, Records, Lifestyle, and Hobbies
Biography
Karola Ruth Siegel, known as Ruth Westheimer, was born on June 4, 1928, in Wiesenfeld, Germany, to an Orthodox Jewish family. Her early childhood was idyllic until the rise of the Nazi regime. In 1939, her parents sent her to a children’s home in Switzerland to escape the increasing persecution of Jews. Tragically, her parents were later killed in the Holocaust. After World War II, Ruth also emigrated to British-controlled Mandatory Palestine. Despite her small stature of 4 feet 7 inches, she joined the Haganah, the Jewish paramilitary organization, and trained as a sniper. During the 1947–1949 Israeli War of Independence, she was seriously injured by an exploding shell, which nearly cost her both feet.
Ruth moved to Paris in 1950, where she studied psychology at the Sorbonne. In 1956, she immigrated to the United States, working as a maid to support herself while pursuing higher education. She earned a Master of Arts in Sociology from The New School in 1959 and also a Doctorate in Education from Teachers College, Columbia University, in 1970.
Career
Ruth’s career in sex therapy began with a part-time job at Planned Parenthood in the 1960s, which sparked her interest in human sexuality. She later trained under Dr. Helen Singer Kaplan at New York Hospital-Cornell Medical Center. Ruth’s media career took off in 1980 with the radio show “Sexually Speaking,” which aired on WYNY-FM in New York. The show became immensely popular, also leading to her television debut with “The Dr. Ruth Show” in 1984. Her candid, humorous, and also respectful approach to discussing sex made her a beloved figure in American pop culture.
Ruth authored nearly 40 books on sex and relationships, including bestsellers like “Sex for Dummies” and “The Art of Arousal”. She was a vocal advocate for safe sex, intimacy, and open communication in relationships.
Ruth married three times. Her third husband, Manfred Westheimer, whom she married in 1961, was a significant support in her life until his death in 1997. They had two children, Miriam and Joel. Even in her later years, Ruth remained active, engaging with the public through social media and public appearances. She continued to educate and inspire people with her positive outlook and dedication to sexual health and education.
Ruth Westheimer passed away on July 12, 2024, at the age of 96, leaving behind a legacy of breaking taboos and fostering open conversations about sex and relationships.
Nationality
Ruth held dual nationality:
- German (1928–1941, 2007–2024)
- American (1965–2024)
Age
Ruth Westheimer passed away on July 12, 2024, at the age of 96.
Properties
Details about Ruth’s properties are not widely publicized. She lived in New York City, where she passed away.
Weight and Height
- Height: 4 feet 7 inches (140 cm)
- Weight: Approximately 76 kg
Records and Achievements
- Media Career: Ruth’s radio show “Sexually Speaking” and television show “The Dr. Ruth Show” were highly influential, making her a household name in the 1980s.
- Also Publications: She authored nearly 40 books on sexuality and relationships.
- Awards: Ruth received numerous accolades, including the Radio Hall of Fame, Magnus Hirschfeld Medal, and the Ellis Island Medal of Honor.
Lifestyle and Hobbies
- Lifestyle: Ruth was known for her energetic and positive demeanor. She also continued to engage with the public through social media and public appearances well into her 90s.
- Hobbies: Ruth enjoyed skiing and water skiing in her younger years. She was also an avid reader and writer, often sharing her thoughts on various topics through her social media accounts.
