As you may have heard by now, legendary comedian Bob Newhart passed away this week at the age of 94.
Newhart is an icon in the worlds of stand-up comedy and television, influencing generations of top talent in both fields.
His death prompted fans around the world to reflect on his work and share their favorite highlights from his storied career.
Now, CBS has announced plans to pay tribute to the life and legacy of Bob Newhart with a one-hour retrospective titled “Legacy of Laughter.”
“This special delves into his journey from accountant to comedian to Hollywood icon, and features rare behind-the-scenes footage from the Entertainment Tonight vault of Bob on the set of sitcoms and feature films,” the outlet writes version released today.
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“It includes 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 provides an in-depth look at Bob’s personal life and marriage to the love of his life, Genie, and tells the latest story of how he changed American culture through comedy.”
The statement also noted that Newhart worked closely with CBS throughout his career:
“Bob played Chicago psychologist Robert Hartley on the CBS television series “The Bob Newhart Show” from 1972 to 1978 and then on the network’s “The Newhart Show” from 1982 to 1990 Vermont hotelier Dick Loudon,” it read.
“In the 1990s, he had two other sitcoms on CBS, BOB and GEORGE AND LEO.
Newhart also played Professor Proton on CBS’s “The Big Bang Theory,” a role that earned him his first Emmy Award.
Newhart remained committed to his career until the end of his life, reprising his role in the TBBT spin-off Young Sheldon.
Few comedy and television legends have been around as long as Newhart.
It was because of his tireless work ethic and his interest in working with each new generation of stars that Newhart’s death came as a shock to many despite his advanced age.
For decades we couldn’t imagine television without Bob Newhart, and in his nineties he still seemed as relevant and vibrant as ever.
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Thankfully, the icon will get the send-off he deserves when “The Legacy of Laughter” premieres Monday on CBS.
Over to you, TV fanatics! Please hit the comments section below to share your favorite Bob Newhart memories.
