Photos: Comedy legend Bob Newhart, 1929-2024
A comedy legend born in Oak Park, Illinois
Newhart had an eventful life. He served in the U.S. military during the Korean War. Following his service, he worked as an accountant but found that he wasn't suited for this career. He went on to work as a copywriter for a Chicago entertainment producer and developed his comedic talents.
He recorded his first comedy album in 1960
With his album, 'The Button-Down Mind of Bob Newhart,' he began his rise to success in comedy. The album topped the Billboard charts and won him multiple Grammy awards.
He perfected the role of 'the straight man' in comedy
He was a master at deadpan delivery and excelled at keeping a straight face amid the absurd.
He was a proud family man
Newhart married Virginia Lillian "Ginnie" Quinn in 1963. They shared 4 children and 10 grandchildren. The were married until Ginnie's death, at the age of 82, in 2023.
'The Bob Newhart Show'
Newhart had his own variety show for a single season in 1961. Despite the show being short lived, he earned a Primetime Emmy nomination as well as a Peabody Award.
'The Bob Newhart Show' returned in a new form
The successful sitcom ran from 1972-1978. Newhart played the role of 'Bob Hartley,' a psychologist and starred alongside Suzanne Pleshette as his wife.
'Newhart'
Bob Newhart enjoyed the success of another beloved sitcom which aired from 1982-1990.
He played a Vermont innkeeper and talk show host on 'Newhart'
Newhart expertly brought his dry sense of humour to the show which featured a strong supporting cast of unique characters. Who could forget 'Larry' and his catchphrase, 'Hi. I'm Larry. This is my brother Darryl. This is my other brother Darryl.'
He continued to act in film and television for decades
Newhart had a role in the Christmas classic, 'Elf,' playing Will Farrell's adoptive father 'Papa Elf.'
He had a recurring role on 'The Big Bang Theory'
Newhart played the role of 'Professor Proton' on the hit series, from 2013-2018. In 2016, after 9 nominations, he won his first Emmy for 'Outstanding Guest Actor In A Comedy Series,' for his work on the show.
Newhart released a memoir in 2007
His memoir, 'I Shouldn't Even Be Doing This: And Other Things That Strike Me as Funny,' proved to be a best seller.
He frequently guest hosted 'The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson'
Newhart was a frequent guest on Carson's show and guest hosted the late night show 87 times.
His last acting role was on 'Young Sheldon'
On this spinoff from 'The Big Bang Theory,' Newhart reprised his role as 'Professor Proton' to the delight of his fans.
He shared a legendary friendship with comedian Don Rickles
The Rickles and Newhart families were very close and vacationed together over the years. The two comedians were regulars on late-night television and worked together on several projects. The story of their friendship was captured in Judd Apatow's 2023 documentary, 'Bob and Don: A Love Story.'
Bob Newhart died on July 18th, 2024, at the age of 94
His passing was confirmed by his publicist, Jerry Digney. Newhart died following a series of illnesses.
Bob Newhart will be fondly remembered for his brilliant career
Newhart was honoured for his contributions to the entertainment industry and also for the good person he was. Director Judd Apatow shared his thoughts on Instagram saying, 'Bob Newhart was as funny as they come. The best stand up, the best situation comedy star, the kindest soul.'
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