Comedic Legend Bob Newhart Passes at 94, Hollywood Honors Him

Hollywood has lost another legend — Bob Newhart has passed away at 94.

On Thursday, the comedy icon’s longtime publicist, Jerry Digney, announced that Newhart died in his Los Angeles home on Thursday “after a series of short illnesses.”

The accountant-turned-actor — who was known for his deadpan delivery and humor — rose to fame in 1960 with his stand-up comedy album, The Button-Down Mind of Bob Newhart, which won three Grammy Awards in 1961.

Following his success in his stand-up career, Newhart went on to star in two beloved CBS sitcoms, The Bob Newhart Show, which ran from 1972 to 1978, and Newhart, which aired from 1982 to 1990.

He later made a handful of appearances in successful TV shows and appeared in several films, most noticeably as Papa Elf in the 2003 Christmas film, Elf, opposite Will Ferrell.

Despite his successful TV career, Newhart did not win an Emmy until 2013 for his guest appearance as Professor Proton on The Big Bang Theory.

He is survived by his four children — Jennifer, Courtney, Timothy, and Robert — and grandchildren. Newhart’s wife of 60 years, Virginia “Ginnie” Newhart, died last year.

Following the news of Newhart’s passing, Hollywood and beyond took to social media to pay tribute.

Comedy filmmaker Judd Apatow shared a post on X, formerly Twitter, writing, “Bob Newhart was the kindest most hilarious man. He asked me to make a documentary about his friendship with Don Rickles. I was so lucky to get to spend that time with my hero. His brilliant comedy and gentle spirit made everyone he encountered so happy.”

Fellow director Paul Feig wrote, “And we lose another comedy legend. I had the honor of doing a guest role on Newhart & got to spend the week listening to the great Bob Newhart making us all laugh. A brilliant stand-up & comedic actor, he was truly one of a kind. His legacy will live on.”

Source: Getty, X