Bob Newhart, renowned comedian and actor of 'Newhart' fame, passes away at 94

Beloved comedian famed for deadpan wit passes at L.A. home after brief illness

Bob Newhart, the celebrated comedian and actor whose deadpan humor endeared him to audiences for decades, has died at the age of 94. His publicist Jerry Digney confirmed that Newhart passed away peacefully at his Los Angeles residence on Thursday, July 18, following a brief illness.

George Robert Newhart born on September 5, 1929, in Oak Park, Illinois, the versatile entertainer initially pursued a career in accounting after serving in the Army and attending Loyola University. However, his comedic talents soon propelled him into the spotlight after a successful stint performing in Chicago in the late 1950s.

Newhart made history in 1959 with the release of his debut comedy album, The Button-Down Mind of Bob Newhart, which became the first comedy record to top the Billboard album chart. This achievement earned him two Grammy Awards for Album of the Year and Best New Artist, launching a career that spanned over six decades.

His television career was equally illustrious, highlighted by starring roles in the CBS sitcoms The Bob Newhart Show, which aired from 1972 to 1978, and Newhart, which ran from 1982 to 1990. Throughout his career, Newhart received numerous Emmy and Golden Globe nominations, winning his first Emmy in 2013 for his guest role on The Big Bang Theory.

In addition to television, Newhart appeared in films such as Legally Blonde 2 and Elf, captivating audiences with his unique comedic style and distinctive voice.

Newhart's wife of 56 years, Ginnie, passed away in April 2023 after a prolonged illness. He is survived by their four children: sons Robert and Timothy, and daughters Jennifer and Courtney, as well as ten grandchildren.

Throughout his life, Newhart maintained a profound appreciation for the impact of laughter, remarking, "Comedy has given me a wonderful life. When I first started out in stand-up, I just remember the sound of laughter. It’s one of the great sounds of the world."

His death marks the end of an era in comedy and entertainment, leaving behind a legacy cherished by fans and colleagues alike.