One comedy giant saluted another this week after the passing of Bob Newhart, who died Thursday morning at the age of 94. Tributes poured in from friends and collaborators, highlighting the indelible mark he left on the comedy world.
Carol Burnett took to Twitter to share a heartfelt farewell to Newhart, posting a black-and-white photo of the pair on a set in 1964. “I had the great pleasure of working with Bob and being his friend,” Burnett wrote. “He was as kind and nice as he was funny. He will be missed.”
Jon Favreau, director of “Elf,” also expressed his condolences, saying, “Bob Newhart was a comedy icon. His deadpan delivery was so infectious both on and off screen. I am grateful to have known him and will always treasure our collaboration.”
Castmates from “The Big Bang Theory” shared their memories of Newhart. Johnny Galecki posted a series of photos on Instagram, writing, “In one of his last emails to me, Bob requested that I stop telling people he’s a ‘nice guy.’ Though I hate to disobey a hero, I must share that Bob was a wonderful man and I cherished my time with him. Safe passage, my friend.”
Mayim Bialik reminisced about her childhood, saying “The Bob Newhart Show” provided countless hours of enjoyment and early training in sitcom art. She added, “Working with Bob on ‘Big Bang Theory’ was absolutely a dream come true. He was effortlessly professional, poised, hilarious, and incredibly approachable. How he will be missed!”
Director Paul Feig, who appeared in a 1988 episode of “Newhart,” honored the star on social media. “And we lose another comedy legend. I had the honor of doing a guest role on ‘Newhart’ and got to spend the week listening to the great Bob Newhart making us all laugh,” Feig wrote on X. “A brilliant standup and comedic actor, he was truly one of a kind.”
CBS, the network where both of Newhart’s popular sitcoms aired, announced it will broadcast a special in his honor on July 22, according to The Hollywood Reporter. This special will serve as a fitting tribute to a man who brought joy and laughter to countless fans over his long and illustrious career.
Bob Newhart’s legacy as a comedic genius and kind-hearted individual will continue to inspire and entertain future generations.
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