Los Angeles [US], July 7 (HBTV): Judy Belushi Pisano, the widow of comedian John Belushi and a former actress and producer, has died at the age of 73, as per PEOPLE magazine.

As per The Martha’s Vineyard Times, she died after a long battle with cancer.

Belushi’s official social media accounts shared the news on Instagram and Facebook.

“Today, our hearts are heavy as we say goodbye to our sweet Judy,” the statement read. “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.”

“In the years following John’s passing in 1982, Judy honored his life and championed his legacy and the Blues Brothers brand,” the statement continued. “As we bid farewell, we pledge to continue her work, ensuring that John’s legacy, and the Blues Brothers will never fade.”

Judy was married to Belushi from 1976 until 1982 when he died from a drug overdose. She remarried in 1990 to Victor Pisano before filing for divorce in 2010.

Friend and musician Stephen Bishop, who appeared in The Blues Brothers and contributed music to Animal House, paid tribute to Judy Belushi Pisano on Instagram.

He shared a photo of himself with Judy and John Belushi and reflected on their time together.

“I have fond memories of working and hanging out with Judy and John. She was always kind to me and stayed in touch through the years. I so enjoyed seeing her at Animal House reunions,” he wrote. “My memories of her are filled with warmth and affection. I’ll always cherish them.”

Judy and John Belushi met in high school in Wheaton, Illinois, and married in 1976. In a 2020 interview with PEOPLE, Judy recalled her late husband telling her,” You should probably break up with me because I want to be an actor and I’ll probably never make any money.”

“But I always thought he’d do well,” she said at the time.

Judy Pisano was also deeply involved in the arts community on Martha’s Vineyard, organizing fundraisers for Martha’s Vineyard Community Services and Martha’s Vineyard Playhouse, according to PEOPLE

Judy Belushi Pisano is survived by her children and grandchildren.

(ANI) This is a syndicated news feed. HBTV has edited it for clarity.