Bob Newhart, a legendary comedian known for his unique deadpan style, has passed away at the age of 94. He left an indelible mark on the world of comedy and television.
Bob Newhart was born George Robert Newhart on September 5, 1929, in Oak Park, Illinois. He graduated from Loyola University Chicago with a degree in business management before serving in the U.S. Army during the Korean War.
After the army, Newhart worked as an accountant and later as an advertising copywriter. His big break came when Warner Bros. Records signed him based on his comedy routines recorded over the phone with a friend.
Newhart’s debut comedy album, “The Button-Down Mind of Bob Newhart,” became the first comedy album to reach number one on the Billboard charts. It won two Grammy Awards and solidified his reputation as a comedic genius.
In the 1970s, Newhart starred as Dr. Robert Hartley in “The Bob Newhart Show,” a sitcom about a Chicago psychologist. The show was a hit and ran for six seasons.
In the 1980s, Newhart starred in another successful sitcom, “Newhart,” where he played an innkeeper in Vermont. The series ran for eight seasons and featured one of the most memorable series finales in TV history.
Newhart also appeared in several films, including “Catch-22,” “Elf,” and voiced the character Bernard in Disney’s “The Rescuers” and its sequel.
In his later years, Newhart made guest appearances on shows like “The Big Bang Theory,” earning an Emmy Award for his role as Professor Proton.
Bob Newhart was married to his wife, Ginnie, for over 60 years. The couple had four children and ten grandchildren. Ginnie passed away in April 2023.
Bob Newhart’s deadpan humor and groundbreaking comedy have inspired countless comedians and entertained generations. His contributions to entertainment will be remembered and celebrated for years to come.
