Bob Newhart‘s death there sent a ripple effect across Hollywood and beyond that deeply impacted by the unparalleled humor which transcended generations.
Newhart — who died at his home in Los Angeles at the age of 94 — remembered by those who worked with him and those who admired him from afar. Newhart, of course, will be remembered forever for what he saw On The Ed Sullivan Show and a stand-up comedy album, Button-Down Mind from Bob Newhartwhich became the first of a genre to hit No. 1 in Billboard chart. The album also earned two GRAMMYs for Album of the Year and Best New Artist.
He earned an Emmy nomination as well as a Peabody Award for his variety program, The Bob Newhart Showas well as many memorable appearances, such as in Will Ferrell’s 2003 Christmas classic, Elf.
In a statement to ET, ER star Noah Wyle shared, “Heroes often disappoint people when they meet them. Bob did not. I will always be grateful for the time I spent with him – laughing, globetrotting, telling stories and trying to save the world. I join the many who mourn his passing so much funnier.
In an exclusive tribute message to ET, Judd Hirsch, Newhart George and Leo partner, said, “Bob Newhart. Would I tell him if he was still here? Well, first of all I would like to thank that man, one of the kindest actors I’ve ever played on television. A great comedian. A man of our time.”
“I remember every time we shot the show — George and Leo — he would come up to me and say, ‘I know you have to catch the red eye back to New York to see the little girl.’ I said, ‘Yes, whenever I can.’ He said, ‘You will every time.’ That promise was made 22 times,” Hirsch said. I’m so proud to be a part of your legacy. Adios, my friend. Rest well.”
The Bob Newhart Show star Morgan Fairchild also said in a statement, telling ET, “One of the first projects when I arrived in LA was The Bob Newhart Show directed by Dick Martin, of Rowan and Martin’s Laugh In. What a joy to be on set with these wonderful, hysterical pros!”
“Bob is one of the nicest and kindest people I’ve ever met, and he’s always so funny,” she continued. “He’s also always been friendly and kind every time I’ve run into him over the past decades. A wonderful, one-of-a-kind gentleman, with an impeccable delivery. He will be sorely missed.”
Two and a half people star Jon Cryer take it to X, andum“One of the greats. Truly. I am very grateful for the work and art in my life.”
Newhart appeared in six episodes of The Big Bang Theory — which brought him his first Emmy in 2013 for guest acting — and co-star, Kaley Cuocotook to his Instagram story to remember the giant of comedy.
“I’ll never forget you, Bob! Thanks for making our dreams come true!” he wrote over a photo of the cast alongside a smiling Newhart.
In another snap showing Cuoco and Newhart, he wrote, “What a dream it is to witness the genius that is Bob Newhart. He is classy, kind, generous and absolutely hilarious. Every time – every time. An eternal icon.”
Mark Hamill also tweeted, “From groundbreaking stand-up to two classic sitcoms that gave us a lifetime of laughter. Truly one-of-a-kind. Thank you Bob Newhart!” #RIP.”
director Judd Apatow walk down the memory and remember the experience of falling in love with Newhart, while also sharing a link to a short documentary for New Yorkers in Newhart and last Don Rickles nicknamed Bob and Don: A Love Story.
“Bob Newhart is the funniest guy. He asked me to make a documentary about his friendship with Don Rickles,” Apatow tweeted. “I’m so happy to be able to spend that time with my hero. His good comedy and gentle spirit make everyone he meets very happy.”
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