Bob Newhart Tributes: Judd Apatow Recalls “His Brilliant Comedy And Gentle Spirit,” Al Franken Remembers Stellar ‘Saturday Night Live’ Appearance

Refresh for updates: Comedy icon Bob Newhart, who died today at the age of 94, is being remembered by coworkers, peers and fans as one of television’s all-time greats, a genius of understatement with an unfailing warm-hearted spirit.

Wil Wheaton, who worked with Newhart on The Big Bang Theory, said on Facebook, “When I had the extraordinary privilege of working in the same episodes as Bob Newhart, I stayed on the stage the whole time, just to watch him work. I mean, how could I not? He made it all look so easy, and holy shit he was so funny, even more than you think. One day, he and I ended up sitting next to each other during a break in production. In the industry, we call it ‘taking a five’ or ‘a quick ten’ or something like that. Just a little break for everyone to catch their breaths. A couple of the writers were there, I think, and maybe one or two other actors. And we all sat there, while Bob Newhart told stories about his life and career. It was amazing. This legend, just talking to us like it was no big deal, sharing these incredible experiences with us. I knew then that I would never forget it, that I would cherish that experience for the rest of my life.

I just read the news that Bob Newhart passed away at 94, and this memory has come back to me, like it was yesterday. He didn’t need to be kind. He didn’t need to tell us these stories. He didn’t owe us any of his time. And yet he did, and he loved it. Because he chose to do all those things, I have a gift that Bob Newhart gave me. I haven’t opened it in a while, but I took it out today, and I was grateful. Rest well, Bob.”

Jimmie Walker: “His comedy albums were great – His TV show NEWHART was cerebral genius. I remember seeing him in 2019 at the Paley Honors: A Special Tribute To Televion’s Comedy Legends where Bob was supposed to get up and say a few words; he did like a half-hour and KILLED at age 89! I was lucky to spend some time with him at various TV related functions and he was always a Class Act!”

Alan Zweibel: “I started off as your fan, then I became your writer, then I became your friend. But all the time I remained your fan. R.I.P. “

Al Franken: “Bob Newhart was a giant, a genius, and a great guy. I’ll always remember when he hosted SNL and did a stellar show. He was, as you might expect, a joy to work with. May his memory be a blessing.”

MORE TO COME…