Family Pays Tribute as Stars Mourn His Passing

Bob Newhart’s family and Hollywood stars have turned social media into a heartfelt tribute page. Celebrities like filmmaker Judd Apatow and former “The Big Bang Theory” co-star Kaley Cuoco, to name a few, are sharing cherished memories, celebrating the iconic comedian who brought joy to millions.

Bob Newhart, whose wit and charm defined a generation of humor, has died at 94. With his death, his family and Hollywood colleagues have expressed their heartfelt messages for the late icon. “Our father passed away this morning surrounded by all our family,” Bob’s family shared in a heartfelt statement on Facebook.

The statement continued, touching on their late mother, Ginny Newhart: “We feel blessed that he is reunited with our mom and all of his friends waiting for him. Thank you for all of your well wishes. He was deeply loved by all, but especially by his children and grandchildren.”

The news of Bob’s death has triggered an outpouring of grief and admiration from Hollywood. “Freaky Friday” actress Jamie Lee Curtis captured the sentiment of many who admired his wit. “They will be laughing wherever people go when they leave us. God, he was funny! Bob Newhart. You will be missed!” she shared on Instagram.

Also on Instagram, “30 Rock” actor Alec Baldwin simply posted a photo of the late actor smiling in a brown suit. “Au revoir to the great Bob Newhart…” he captioned.

Actress Kaley Cuoco, who played Penny on “The Big Bang Theory” alongside Bob’s character, Professor Proton, posted an emotional tribute on her Instagram Story.

She wrote, “What a dream it was to witness the genius that was Bob Newhart. He was classy, kind, generous and absolutely hilarious. Every take – every time. Icon forever.”

“Star Wars” actor Mark Hamill also praised Bob’s enduring influence on comedy on X, formerly Twitter. “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!” Hamill expressed.

Film director Judd Apatow also shared his grief on X. He described Bob as “the kindest, most hilarious man.” Judd fondly recalled when Bob asked him to make a short documentary for The New Yorker called “Bob and Don.” The film was about his friendship with comedian Don Rickles, who passed away in 2017.

Judd shared, “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. ”

Bob’s unwavering dedication to his craft continued throughout his life. At the 2016 Emmy Awards, he reflected on his enduring love for performing and his thoughts about retirement. He said he had the chance to retire that year, but leaving a career that brought him so much joy felt unacceptable.

“Just drove me nuts. So, I said, ‘Get me some dates, cause I, I gotta..’ How can you be tired of making people laugh, you know? How can you…No, I don’t want to drop dead on a soundstage. But, at 87, to be nominated for anything is uh—I thoroughly enjoyed it,” he said. This relentless dedication carried over into the pandemic.

In a candid 2020 conversation with Turner Classic Movies host Ben Mankiewicz, Bob shared his thoughts on performing amid the pandemic. “Yeah, it’s a narcotic! People would say, ‘Why do you still do it?’ I say, ‘Yeah, you’re right, I’m tired of making people laugh. I hate it!'” he said with his signature wit.

Reflecting on his views about the afterlife, Bob added, “I have this theory that when it’s all over, for death, and you go up, I’ve been led to believe, to heaven, and there’s a God and he says, ‘What did you do?’ And I say, ‘I made people laugh.’ ‘Yeah, get in that real short line over there.'”

Bob passed away in his Los Angeles home, and his publicist announced that he died “after a series of short illnesses.” The comedian’s death came a year after his wife, Ginnie, died in April 2023 after a long illness. She was 82. Her death occurred three months after the couple celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary in January.

Bob’s whimsical take on his legacy highlights his comedic impact, starting with his 1960 album, “The Button-Down Mind of Bob Newhart,” which won Grammy Awards and launched his TV career.

He starred in “The Bob Newhart Show” (1972-1978) and “Newhart” (1982-1990). In 2013, he won his first Emmy for a guest role on “The Big Bang Theory,” showing his lasting appeal.

Born George Robert Newhart on September 5, 1929, in Oak Park, Illinois, Bob worked as an accountant before becoming a comedian. His comedy style included a deadpan delivery, a slight stammer, and funny monologues.

He gained recognition for his impact on comedy when he was inducted into the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences Hall of Fame in 1992.

Bob’s unique comedic voice and gentle spirit have left a lasting mark on the world. As the Newhart family and fellow entertainers remember him, his legacy of laughter continues to bring joy and inspire future generations of comedians.