As you’ve likely heard by now, legendary comic Bob Newhart passed away this week at the age of 94.
Newhart was an icon in the worlds of standup comedy and television, influencing generations of top talents in both arenas.
His passing has prompted fans across the globe to reflect on his work and share their favorite highlights from his storied career.
(Photo by Michael Buckner/Getty Images)
And now, CBS has announced plans to pay tribute to the life and legend of Bob Newhart with a one-hour retrospective entitled A Legacy of Laughter.
“The special takes an in-depth look at his journey from accountant to comedian to Hollywood icon, with rare behind-the-scenes footage of Bob on the set of his sitcoms and feature films, from the ENTERTAINMENT TONIGHT vault,” reads a press release issued today.
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“Included are new and archival interviews with some of Bob’s closest friends and co-stars, including Jim Parsons, Will Ferrell, Reese Witherspoon, Jason Bateman and Michael Weatherly.
“The show takes an intimate look inside Bob’s personal life and his marriage to the love of his life, Ginnie, with newly revealed stories about how he changed American culture through comedy.”
(Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images)
The statement goes on to note that Newhart worked closely with CBS throughout his career:
“Bob starred as Chicago psychologist Robert Hartley on the CBS television series THE BOB NEWHART SHOW from 1972 to 1978, and then as Vermont innkeeper Dick Loudon on NEWHART from 1982 to 1990, also on the Network,” it reads.
“He had two other sitcoms on CBS in the 1990s, BOB and GEORGE AND LEO.”
Newhart also played Professor Proton on CBS’ The Big Bang Theory, a recurring role for which he won his first Emmy.
Devoted to his craft until the very end, Newhart reprised the role on the TBBT spinoff, Young Sheldon.
(Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images)
Few comedy and TV legends remained as active for as long as Newhart.
It’s due to his tireless work ethic and his interest in collaborating with the stars of each new generation that, despite his advanced age, Newhart’s death came as a shock to so many.
For decades, it’s been impossible to imagine a television without Bob Newhart, and he seemed as relevant and vibrant as ever into his nineties.
Related: Young Sheldon’s Wrap-Up Was As Funny As It Was Heartbreakingly Beautiful
Thankfully, the icon will get the send-off he deserves when A Legacy of Laughter premiers on Monday on CBS.
Over to you, TV fanatics! Please hit the comments section below to share your favorite Bob Newhart memories.
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