Cherished for his role as Papa Elf, Newhart leaves behind a legacy of laughter and holiday cheer.
Written 19th July 2024 | Subscribe to our Christmas newsletter
Bob Newhart, the cherished comedian and actor known for his heartwarming role in the Christmas classic "Elf," has passed away at the age of 94. Newhart, who brought to life the character of Papa Elf, the adoptive father to Will Ferrell's Buddy, was a beloved figure in holiday cinema.
Newhart's publicist, Jerry Digney, confirmed that the actor passed away following "a series of short illnesses."
Launching his career in the late 1950s as a stand-up comic, Newhart quickly rose to fame. His 1960 comedy album, "The Button-Down Mind of Bob Newhart," captured the nation's attention and won a Grammy Award for Album of the Year, along with the title of Best New Artist. The sequel, "The Button-Down Mind Strikes Back!," also won a Grammy for Best Comedy Spoken Word Album.
Beyond his iconic role in "Elf," Newhart appeared in numerous films such as "Catch 22," "In and Out," and "Legally Blonde 2." His work extended to television as well, including notable appearances in "The Big Bang Theory" and its spin-off, "Young Sheldon." Newhart's own show, "The Bob Newhart Show," and other sitcoms like "Bob" and "George & Leo," earned him multiple Emmy nominations.
Despite his many nominations, Newhart humorously remarked on his Emmy experience, saying, "I guess they think I'm not acting. That it's just Bob being Bob."
In addition to his celebrated roles, Newhart continued to make occasional TV appearances even after his fourth sitcom ended. In 2003, he expressed his dedication to his craft, saying, "It's been so much, 43 years of my life; [to quit] would be like something was missing."
Bob Newhart's legacy as Papa Elf and his vast contributions to comedy and television will be fondly remembered, especially during the holiday season.
