Mark Hamill Joins A-Listers in Tribute to ‘One-of-a-Kind’ Bob Newhart

Star Wars actor Mark Hamill has paid tribute to the “one-of-a-kind” comedian Bob Newhart, who has died at the age of 94.

Newhart, whose transition from accountant to beloved entertainer made him a household name, passed away at his home in Los Angeles following “a series of short illnesses,” according to his publicist, Jerry Digney.

Hamill, known for his iconic role as Luke Skywalker in the Star Wars saga, honored Newhart on social media platform X, expressing, “From his groundbreaking stand-up to his two classic sitcoms, he gave us a lifetime of laughter. Truly one-of-a-kind. Thank you, Bob Newhart!”

Jurassic Park star Laura Dern also shared her feelings on Instagram, stating, “I love you, Bob Newhart. Thank you for all the joy.”

Newhart’s death has been met with sorrow from numerous celebrities. 30 Rock actor Alec Baldwin described him as “great,” while Freaky Friday star Jamie Lee Curtis noted that he would “be missed.”

Filmmaker Judd Apatow, who directed a documentary about Newhart’s friendship with comedian Don Rickles, shared a heartfelt tribute, noting, “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.”

Newhart’s illustrious career earned him numerous accolades. He won an Emmy in 2013 for his recurring guest role as Arthur Jeffries/Professor Proton in the popular sitcom The Big Bang Theory. Additionally, he took home three Grammys in 1961 for his comedy album The Button-Down Mind Of Bob Newhart. Notably, he remains the only comedian to have ever won both Best New Artist and Album of the Year, as per the Grammy Awards website.

While Newhart began his career in the 1960s with a deadpan style of humor, he truly made his mark on television through his classic sitcoms. The Bob Newhart Show, which aired from 1972 to 1978, and Newhart, which ran from 1982 to 1990, solidified his status as a sitcom legend.

Newhart also showed his versatility with roles in movies, such as playing Papa Elf in the 2003 Christmas movie Elf, which starred Will Ferrell, and Lou Sherman in the 2011 comedy Horrible Bosses.

Bob Newhart is survived by his four children: Jennifer, Courtney, Timothy, and Robert, as well as his numerous grandchildren.

Source: PA News Agency