(RepublicanJournal.org) – Bob Newhart is one of the most recognized names in comedy. He’s well-known for his deadpan delivery, which spurred lots of laughter from crowds. Sadly, he passed away at the age of 94.
On Thursday, July 18, Newhart passed away at his home in Los Angeles, according to his publicist, Jerry Digney. No official cause was given, though it was reported that he suffered a few short illnesses prior to his death.
Born George Robert Newhart in September 1929, Newhart’s beginning is a bit of a unique tale. He started with comedy while he was living at home when he was only 30. A former accountant who worked on skits while in the office, Newhart took the plunge in 1960 when he released his debut album, “The Button-Down Mind of Bob Newhart.” From there, he skyrocketed into fame. The album went on to pass the top stars of the era, including Elvis Presley and Frank Sinatra, and to this day, he is still the only comedian to ever win Grammy Awards for album of the year and best new artist.
Newhart started out playing nightclubs despite having no experience doing so, and that propelled his career even further. He appeared on several TV shows and performed at Carnegie Hall in New York.
The comedian regularly found himself playing in television shows and movies, including “Elf,” “Hell Is for Heroes,” and “Catch-22.” Recurring roles on “ER” and “Desperate Housewives” kept him in the public eye well into his later years, as did a short-lived role as Professor Proton in “Big Bang Theory.” In fact, he was performing in nightclubs up until his 80s. He also did voiceovers for several animations.
The comedian was predeceased by his wife of 60 years, Virginia Quinn, who passed away last year. Newhart is survived by the couple’s four children: Timothy, Robert, Courtney Albertini, and Jennifer Bongiovi.
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