July 22, 2024
Newhart's career spanned 60 years, from his early roots as a stand-up on The Ed Sullivan Show. His pitch-perfect timing and deadpan delivery made him a timeless comic force. By: K Dass.
US - Comedian and actor Bob Newhart,
known for his distinctive dry and deadpan style, has left an indelible mark on
television history. Newhart, who starred in long-running sitcoms such as The
Bob Newhart Show and Newhart, passed away at the age of 94 at his
Los Angeles home after a series of short illnesses.
Newhart first gained fame as a stand-up comedian, with
his 1960 comedy album The Button-Down Mind of Bob Newhart reaching No. 1
on the Billboard charts and winning the Grammy for Album of the Year. His
portrayal of psychologist Bob Hartley in The Bob Newhart Show alongside
Suzanne Pleshette (as wife Emily) and Bill Daily (as patient Elliot Carlin)
made the show a hit, running for six seasons from 1972 to 1978. In 1982,
Newhart returned to CBS to star as Vermont innkeeper Dick Loudon in the sitcom Newhart,
which enjoyed an eight-season run until 1990.
The series finale of Newhart remains one of the
most surprising moments in TV history. Newhart woke up in bed next to his Bob
Newhart Show co-star Pleshette, revealing the entire series to be a dream
in the mind of his character. Later, Newhart took on a dramatic role on NBC’s ER
as depressed patient Ben Hollander, earning an Emmy nomination in 2004. He
also made memorable appearances on CBS’ The Big Bang Theory as Sheldon’s
childhood idol, Professor Proton, winning his first-ever Emmy Award in 2013.
Bob Newhart’s legacy extends beyond laughter; he
touched hearts and left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. His
wit, charm, and unique comedic sensibility will continue to resonate with
audiences for generations to come.