Tribute from Carol Burnett:
Comedy lost one of its legends Thursday with the death of Bob Newhart at 94. A long-time friend and frequent collaborator, Carol Burnett took to Twitter to offer warm tribute. She posted a touching black-and-white photo from way back in 1964 of just the two and wrote: “I had the great pleasure of working with Bob and being his friend. He was as kind and nice as he was funny. He will be missed.” Burnett’s tribute underscores how seriously deep the personal and professional connection they shared was.
Industry Reactions and Reflections:
The news of Newhart’s death sent shockwaves across the entertainment circuit. Jon Favreau, who directed “Elf,” paid tribute to Newhart’s funny career: “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.” Favreau’s admiration reflects just how highly regarded Newhart was among other performers.
Memories from the Cast of “The Big Bang Theory”:
Stars of the hit show “The Big Bang Theory” paid their respects by remembering Newhart personally. He posted a string of pictures on Instagram, saying in the caption, “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.” In Galecki’s appreciation, one could feel how Newhart was regarded at work.
The other “Big Bang Theory” star, Mayim Bialik, was a touch more sentimental about the place Newhart’s work held in her own career: “As a child,” she wrote, “‘The Bob Newhart Show’ provided hundreds of hours of pleasure for me—it was some of my earliest education in sitcom.” She called this opportunity to work with Newhart a dream come true, adding that he was beyond professional, poised, and funny. Her homage speaks to just how big of an impression Newhart had on the people around him.
Other Comics Pay Tribute:
Movie and TV director Paul Feig, who appeared in a 1988 episode of Newhart’s show “Newhart,” weighed in with his admiration. “And we lose another comedy legend,” Feig posted on X, formerly known as Twitter. I had the pleasure of doing a guest role on Newhart & got to spend the week just listening to the great Bob Newhart make us all laugh. A brilliant standup & comedic actor, he was really one of a kind.” Feig’s comments join the chorus of appreciation for Newhart’s singular talents and contributions to comedy.
CBS’s Special Tribute:
CBS is going to run a one-hour special on July 22 all about the legacy of Bob Newhart, the network that carried both of his successful sitcoms. The news comes via The Hollywood Reporter. If it’s as much an honor as it sounds, fans and fellow celebrities alike will be able to learn a thing or two about his uniformly stealthy career and lasting influence.
