Bob Newhart, whose stammering, deadpan unflappability carried him to stardom as a standup comedian and later in television and movies, died on Thursday, according to a statement from his longtime publicist Jerry Digney. He was 94.
Over the course of five decades, Newhart’s popularity rarely waned, whether it was as the recording star of the comedy album “The Button-Down Mind of Bob Newhart” (the first comedy album to win the Grammy for album of the year), the lead in two top-rated television sitcoms, or a supporting actor in movies including “Catch-22,” “Cold Turkey,” and “Elf.” He remains best known for the television shows, “The Bob Newhart Show” (1972-78) and “Newhart” (1982-90), both of which were built around his persona as a reasonable man put-upon by crazies.
Newhart’s Early Career
Newhart was originally an accountant and advertising copywriter. He first rose to fame with his comedy album, 1960’s “The Button-Down Mind of Bob Newhart.” The album was a phenomenon of its time, becoming one of the best-selling albums of the year and winning multiple Grammy Awards.
Iconic Television Roles
In television, Newhart was notable not only for his comedic talent but also for his unique ability to portray characters surrounded by eccentric personalities. His roles often depicted the struggles of a calm individual navigating chaotic situations.
Significant Appearances in Film
Throughout his career, Newhart featured in various films, showcasing his acting versatility. Notable appearances include his roles in classic films like “Catch-22” and the holiday favorite “Elf,” where he displayed his comedic and acting prowess seamlessly.
A Lasting Impact
Bob Newhart’s influence on comedy is profound. His unique style and memorable characters have left an indelible mark on both television and film. His ability to connect with audiences through humor has made him a beloved figure in the entertainment industry.
A Fond Farewell
As we reflect on the life and legacy of Bob Newhart, we celebrate a comedian who brought joy to millions. His contributions to pop culture will continue to resonate for generations to come.
Newhart was originally an accountant and advertising copywriter. He first rose to fame with his comedy album, 1960’s ‘The Button-Down Mind of Bob Newhart.’ The album was a phenomenon of its time. It was one of the best-selling albums of the year, and it won multiple Grammy Awards. GAB Archive/Redferns/Getty ImagesNewhart and singer Nat ‘King’ Cole appear together at the Grammy Awards in 1960. Newhart beat out Cole, Frank Sinatra, and Harry Belafonte for album of the year.Talk-show host Ed Sullivan pretends to grab Newhart around the neck in 1960.Newhart signs autographs in the hallway of the Ambassador Hotel in Los Angeles in 1961.Newhart films the 1962 war movie ‘Hell Is for Heroes.’ Sid Avery/MPTV/ReutersNewhart poses as an addled accountant at an adding machine for a promotional photo of ‘The Bob Newhart Show.’ The award-winning variety show aired for one season beginning in 1961. The same name was later used for his sitcom that aired in the 1970s. Allan Grant/The LIFE Picture Collection/Getty ImagesNewhart appears in a supermarket sketch during an episode of ‘The Bob Newhart Show’ in 1961.Newhart performs on the set of ‘The Bob Newhart Show.’ Julian Wasser/The LIFE Images Collection/Getty ImagesNewhart and his wife, Ginnie, laugh together at their home in Los Angeles in 1964.Newhart, sporting a crooked mustache, appears with Norman Fell in a scene from the 1970 film ‘Catch-22.’Newhart is interviewed by talk-show host Johnny Carson on ‘The Tonight Show’ in 1971.In the sitcom ‘The Bob Newhart Show,’ Newhart played a Chicago psychologist, Bob Hartley, who ministered to a host of eccentric patients. The show aired from 1972 to 1978.Newhart counsels a clown about his problems in a 1972 episode of ‘The Bob Newhart Show.’Newhart fishes with television personality Ed McMahon in Cypress Gardens, Florida, in 1972.Suzanne Pleshette played Newhart’s wife, Emily, in ‘The Bob Newhart Show.’ CBS/Getty ImagesNewhart poses in his home office in 1972. Bettmann Archive/Getty ImagesNewhart sits with Gene Wilder during the making of the TV movie ‘Thursday’s Game’ in 1974.Newhart takes direction from Dick Martin during a scene for ‘The Bob Newhart Show’ in 1977.Newhart, known for mostly playing nice guys, poses as a dour devil with a red cape, pitchfork, and horns in 1978.Newhart and members of his family attend an Easter Sunday brunch in Los Angeles in 1982. Newhart and his wife, Ginnie, had four children: Robert, Timothy, Jennifer, and Courtney.Newhart, seated, appears in a scene of the TV sitcom ‘Newhart’ in 1982. He played the role of Vermont innkeeper Dick Loudon, who tried to maintain his sanity while surrounded by comical locals.Newhart poses with fellow cast members from the sitcom ‘Bob,’ which ran in 1992 and 1993.Newhart appears with Will Ferrell in a scene of the 2003 comedy film ‘Elf.’ New Line Cinema/Everett CollectionNewhart sits with a bronze likeness of Bob Hartley, the character he played in the sitcom ‘The Bob Newhart Show,’ at its unveiling in Chicago in 2004.Newhart appears on stage with Conan O’Brien during the Primetime Emmy Awards in 2006.Newhart appears with Johnny Galecki and Bill Nye in an episode of ‘The Big Bang Theory’ in 2013.Newhart poses with an Emmy Award in 2013. He won outstanding guest actor in a comedy series for his role in ‘The Big Bang Theory.’ Scott Kirkland/Invision for Academy of Television Arts & Sciences/AP ImagesNewhart arrives at the Emmy Awards in 2016. Emma McIntyre/Getty Images
