Bob Newhart, the legendary comedian and actor whose dry humor and sharp wit made him a household name for over six decades, has passed away at the age of 94. Fans are mourning his loss online.
Legendary comedian and actor, Bob Newhart, died Thursday morning at his home in Los Angeles. He was 94. His publicist, Jerry Digney, announced via The Hollywood Reporter that he passed away “after a series of short illnesses.”
A fan’s comment about Bob Newhart’s death, posted in July 2024 | Source: Instagram/goodmorningamerica
Following the publicist’s announcement, some fans are reeling from the news of Bob’s passing, sharing their grief and admiration on social media. Many reflected on how he brightened their lives. “He made me laugh a lot ❤️,” a netizen commented.
Bob Newhart at The Paley Honors: A Special Tribute to Television’s Comedy Legends, Beverly Wilshire, Los Angeles on November 21, 2019 | Source: Getty Images
Another shared, “Such a funny n good family man. You’ve given us so much. Thank you [sic].” Nostalgia tinged their messages, as one fan reminisced, “Omg he will be missed. Such a part of my childhood Newhart show😢 last I saw him on Big Bang Therory [sic].”
The sense of loss was palpable. One user reacted, “So sad!! One of my favorites!!” while another remarked, “Loved Bob Newhart. 💔RIP. Thanks for all the laughs. Great talent.”
Bob became famous with his 1960 comedy album, “The Button-Down Mind of Bob Newhart,” which won Grammy Awards for Album of the Year and Best New Artist. This early success led to his television career.
Bob Newhart at the Emmy Awards Backstage Creations Giving Suite in Los Angeles on September 22, 2019 | Source: Getty Images
He starred in two beloved TV shows: “The Bob Newhart Show” (1972-1978) and “Newhart” (1982-1990). In 2013, he won his first Emmy for a guest role on “The Big Bang Theory,” showing his lasting appeal.
His impact on comedy was recognized when he was inducted into the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences Hall of Fame in 1992.
Jim Parsons as Sheldon Cooper and Bob Newhart as Arthur Jeffries, also known as Professor, in the 2007 sitcom, “Big Bang Theory” | Source: Getty Images
Born George Robert Newhart on September 5, 1929, in Oak Park, Illinois, Bob worked as an accountant before becoming a comedian. His comedy style included a deadpan delivery, a slight stammer, and funny monologues.
Bob Newhart at the Creative Arts Emmy Awards in Los Angeles on September 10, 2016 | Source: Getty Images
He once explained in a 1990 interview with Los Angeles magazine that his success comes from his tendency “to find humor in the macabre.” He noted that 85 percent of his persona on the show was genuine, while the remaining 15 percent was a disturbed individual with a twisted mindset.
Bob Newhart’s portrait on May 21, 1973 | Source: Getty Images
Bob’s death came a year after his wife, Ginnie Newhart, died in April 2023 after a long illness. She was 82. Her death occurred three months after she and Bob celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary in January.
Bob and Ginny Newhart attend An Evening with Bob Newhart: A “Newhart” Celebration, presented by The Paley Center for Media and Hulu in Beverly Hills, California, on April 26, 2018 | Source: Getty Images
Bob Newhart leaves behind a legacy of laughter and joy. His unique comedic style and memorable TV performances continue to inspire and entertain people, cementing his place as one of the greats in comedy.
