American stand-up comedy legend Bob Newhart, famed for his deadpan delivery style and numerous awards, has passed away at the age of 94.
Newhart, the star of The Bob Newhart Show, died at home following a series of short illnesses, his publicist confirmed in a statement to the BBC on Thursday.
He began his career as an accountant in Chicago before transitioning to stand-up comedy. Newhart guest-hosted Johnny Carson’s Tonight Show 87 times and more recently appeared in the classic Christmas film Elf and The Big Bang Theory.
Born to a plumber in a Chicago suburb, Newhart graduated with a business degree from Loyola University in 1952.
He served in the Army for two years during the Korean War and then enrolled in graduate law school before dropping out.
Newhart’s comedy career began when he and a friend recorded improvised routines, leading to his discovery by a local DJ who recommended him to Warner Bros Records in 1959.
His live recording from a Houston comedy club, The Button-Down Mind of Bob Newhart, became the first comedy album to top the charts, followed by seven more albums selling millions of copies.
Jerry Digney, his longtime publicist, noted in a statement that Newhart started his career “toiling in Chicago as an accountant by day and moonlighting at night as a comedy performer and writer.”
Newhart was a pioneer of stand-up routines featuring long stories with a series of humorous statements, rather than a single punchline joke.
“There was a (comedy) sea change taking place,” he said, according to his publicist.
Newhart distinguished himself from other comedians of his era with his contemporary perspective and observational style. He rarely raised his voice and sometimes even appeared to stammer.
On stage, his sole prop was a telephone, which he used to mimic conversations with an imaginary person on the other end.
A true showman who never fully retired, Newhart remained a familiar presence on Hollywood sets and stages well into his 80s.
Comedy film director Judd Apatow was among those honoring him on X, formerly known as Twitter.
“Bob Newhart was the kindest most hilarious man,” he posted, adding: “His brilliant comedy and gentle spirit made everyone he encountered so happy.”
Actress Kaley Cuoco, who worked with Newhart on The Big Bang Theory, posted on Instagram: “What a dream it was to witness the genius that was Bob Newhart.
“He was classy, kind, generous and absolutely hilarious.”
Director and actor Paul Feig posted on X: “A brilliant standup & comedic actor, he was truly one of a kind.”
“God, he was funny! Bob Newhart. You will be missed!” actress Jamie Lee Curtis posted on Instagram.
Newhart is survived by his four children and numerous grandchildren.
His wife of 60 years, Virginia “Ginnie” Newhart, passed away in 2023.
Comments are closed.