Lulu Roman, beloved Hee Haw star and gospel singer, passes away at 78

Lulu Roman, the beloved comedian and gospel singer best known for her role on the long-running country music variety show Hee Haw, has passed away at the age of 78.

Roman died on Wednesday in Bellingham, Washington, where she had relocated to live with her son, Damon Roman, seven months ago. Her son confirmed the news to The Hollywood Reporter. The cause of her death has not yet been determined.

Roman's career spanned decades, with her debut on Hee Haw in 1969, appearing in the first episode and continuing through its final syndicated run in 1993. While on the show, Roman transformed herself into a gospel singer, releasing over a dozen albums and performing alongside country music legends like Dolly Parton.

Born Bertha Louise Hable on May 6, 1946, in a home for unwed mothers, Roman faced significant hardships early in life. After being placed in an orphanage in Dallas, she developed a thyroid condition that contributed to her being overweight. As a young woman, she struggled with drug addiction, which she later overcame after becoming a devout Christian in 1973. This transformation led to her return to Hee Haw after a period of absence due to a drug-related arrest.

Roman’s rise to fame was supported by country music icon Buck Owens, who recognized her quick wit and humor. Owens brought her to the attention of Hee Haw producers, and she became a central figure in several of the show’s popular segments, including “The Culhanes” and “Truck Stop.”

Beyond Hee Haw, Roman’s career included acting roles in The Love Boat and Touched by an Angel, as well as music collaborations with artists like George Jones and Parton. In 1999, Roman was inducted into the Country Gospel Music Hall of Fame, and in 2019, she published her autobiography, This Is My Story; This Is My Song.

Roman is survived by her son Damon, and her legacy in both comedy and gospel music continues to inspire.