I was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of comedy legend Bob Newhart at the age of 94. Growing up, I remember watching reruns of his iconic sitcoms, “The Bob Newhart Show” and “Newhart,” and being in awe of his deadpan humor and impeccable delivery. His unique style of comedy left an indelible mark on the industry, paving the way for countless comedians who came after him.
Several prominent figures in Hollywood, including Jamie Lee Curtis, Judd Apatow, Paul Feig, and Bill Prady, have expressed their tributes following the death of Bob Newhart at the age of 94 on Thursday morning.
Newhart, a beloved stand-up performer known for his iconic deadpan humor highlights on two CBS sitcoms, died after a series of short illnesses, his longtime publicist, Jerry Digney, shared with The Hollywood Reporter.
Apatow, who teamed up to helm “Bob and Don: A Love Story” – a documentary exploring the long-standing camaraderie between Newhart and Rickles – expressed on X (previously known as Twitter), “Newhart was an extraordinarily kind and riotously funny man. He requested that I create a film chronicling his friendship with Rickles. I felt incredibly fortunate to have been granted the opportunity to work alongside my idol. His witty humor and benevolent demeanor brought immense joy to all those around him.”
It’s difficult to put into words just how significant Bob Newhart was to comedians and comedy writers who followed in his footsteps. Having had the opportunity to work with him, even for a short time, was an immense pleasure and honor for Prady, co-creator of “The Big Bang Theory,” who once welcomed Newhart as a guest star.
In an Instagram post as a tribute, Curtis expressed, “Bob Newhart’s humor will continue to bring joy and laughter to places where people gather. Oh, how we’ll miss the giggles God bestowed upon us through him!”
Film director Feig recalled Newhart on occasion X, stating, “Unfortunately, we lose another comedy icon. I was fortunate enough to appear as a guest on Newhart and spent the entire week being entertained by the hilarious Bob Newhart. An exceptional stand-up comedian and gifted actor, he left an indelible mark in the comedy world. His influence will endure.”
In a statement to THR, Journey Gunderson, executive director of the National Comedy Center, expressed, “Bob Newhart’s pioneering stand-up and TV comedy, along with his iconic deadpan delivery, have significantly influenced the world of comedy. His work will continue to be cherished by comedy enthusiasts for decades. We are delighted to honor and protect his exceptional contributions at the National Comedy Center.”
Find more tributes and reactions below.
View this post on InstagramA post shared by Jamie Lee Curtis (@jamieleecurtis)
Bob Newhart was an extraordinarily kind and hilarious gentleman. He requested me to create a documentary on his long-standing friendship with Don Rickles. I felt incredibly fortunate to have had the opportunity to be in their company, as my idol was none other than him. The brilliance of his comedy, coupled with his gentle disposition, brought immense joy to those around him. “Bob and Don: An Unforgettable Friendship” is a testament to this unique bond.
— Judd Apatow 🇺🇦 (@JuddApatow) July 18, 2024
We sadly bid farewell to another comedy icon. I was privileged to appear as a guest on Newhart, and spent an entire week being entertained by the hilarious Bob Newhart. A master of stand-up and acting comedy, he was uniquely talented and irreplaceable. His comedic legacy will endure.
— Paul Feig (@paulfeig) July 18, 2024
It’s challenging to express the significant impact Bob Newhart had on every comedian and comedy writer who followed him. Working with him, even for a brief period, brought me immense joy and pride.
— Bill Prady ⚛️ (@billprady) July 18, 2024
Mr. Bob Newhart sadly passed away today, leaving behind an indelible mark on my comedy career. His album “The Button-Down Mind of Bob Newhart” deeply influenced me. Newhart was not only an exceptional comedian but also a genuine artist who delivered with humor and sincerity. He consistently made me laugh, touched my heart, and served as a constant reminder of the passion that drove me into stand-up comedy.
— Dane Cook (@DaneCook) July 18, 2024
Goodbye, Bob Newhart. The final episode of NEWHAART is amongst television’s finest moments, a feat that would be hard to replicate in today’s industry.
— Tyler Ruggeri (@t_ruggeri) July 18, 2024
It’s disappointing to hear that Bob Newhart, a comedy legend known for his brilliant timing, has sadly passed away.
— Matt Friend (@themattfriend) July 18, 2024
View this post on InstagramA post shared by Brent Butt (@brentbutt)
What a life. Rest in peace, Bob Newhart…
— Rex Chapman🏇🏼 (@RexChapman) July 18, 2024
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2024-07-18 23:54