Beloved comedian Bob Newhart, renowned for his distinctive dry wit and iconic roles in two beloved CBS sitcoms, has passed away at the age of 94.
Newhart’s publicist confirmed that he died peacefully on Thursday morning at his home in Los Angeles, following a brief period of declining health. The legendary TV star’s passing marks the end of an era for fans of his timeless humor and unforgettable performances.
Remembering the legacy of Bob Newhart
Famed for his understated delivery and modest stature—true to his former life as an accountant—Bob Newhart made an indelible mark on the world of comedy. His debut album, “The Button-Down Mind of Bob Newhart,” released in 1960, became an instant hit, showcasing his unique one-sided conversations. The album’s success was unprecedented for a comedy record, earning Grammys and reaching heights typically reserved for major pop albums. A critic of the era aptly described Newhart as “a 20th century Mark Twain in Brooks Brothers clothes.”
Bob Newhart was renowned for his deadpan delivery and characteristic slight stammer, elements he skillfully wove into his comedic persona, paving the way for a successful career.
On his television shows, Newhart often played the “straight man” akin to the tradition of Jack Benny, letting the quirky characters around him take center stage for the laughs. Despite this comparison, Newhart clarified, “Jack Benny did not influence me,” crediting George Gobel and the duo Bob and Ray as his primary inspirations for his unique style of writing and performance.
In the 1970s, he transitioned to television stardom, portraying Dr. Bob Hartley on NBC’s The Bob Newhart Show from 1972 to 1978. From 1982 to 1990, he starred in the CBS sitcom Newhart, playing Dick Loudon, an author who moves with his wife from New York City to Vermont to run a historic inn.
The Later Years
In his later years, Bob Newhart continued to shine in the entertainment industry. He received an Emmy nomination in 2003 for his portrayal of a librarian losing his eyesight on “ER,” and another in 2008 for his role in the TV movie “The Curse of the Judas Chalice.”
Newhart hosted “Saturday Night Live” in both 1980 and 1995, voiced himself in a 1996 episode of “The Simpsons,” and made 17 appearances on “The Tonight Show With Johnny Carson” between 1966 and 1992, guest-hosting three times. He also appeared on five episodes of the Jay Leno version of “The Tonight Show” between 1998 and 2009.
Additionally, Newhart played himself in a 2002 episode of “Everybody Loves Raymond,” participated in a memorable gag at the 2006 Emmy Awards hosted by Conan O’Brien, and co-presented the award for comedy series.
