Bob Newhart, the legendary comedian and actor known for his deadpan delivery and unique comedic timing, passed away Thursday at his home in Los Angeles. 

His publicist, Jerry Digney, confirmed the death.

Newhart’s career spanned more than six decades, during which he became a household name through his groundbreaking comedy albums, iconic television shows, and numerous film roles.

His 1960 debut album ‘The Button-Down Mind of Bob Newhart’ became the first comedy record to hit number one on the Billboard charts, earning him a Grammy Award for ‘Album of the Year’.

Born George Robert Newhart on September 5, 1929, in Oak Park, Illinois, Newhart began his career in advertising before moving into stand-up comedy. 

His trademark stammering style and sharp wit quickly set him apart in the comedy world, and he gained widespread acclaim for his television series ‘The Bob Newhart Show’ (1972-1978), where he played Dr Robert Hartley, a Chicago psychologist. 

The show was a critical and commercial success, cementing Newhart’s place in television history.

In 1982, he returned to television with ‘Newhart’, where he portrayed Vermont innkeeper Dick Loudon. 

The series ran for eight seasons and ended with one of the most memorable finales in TV history, revealing the entire show had been a dream of Newhart’s character from ‘The Bob Newhart Show’.

Throughout his career, Newhart made numerous guest appearances on television and in films, showcasing his versatility as a performer. 

He was also a beloved voice actor, lending his talents to animated classics such as ‘The Rescuers’ and its sequel, ‘The Rescuers Down Under’.

In 1993, he was inducted into the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences Hall of Fame, and in 2002, he received a Kennedy Centre Honour for his contributions to American culture through the performing arts.

Despite his many achievements, Newhart remained humble and gracious, often crediting his success to the support of his family and fans. His four children and several grandchildren survive him.