The Big Bang Theory star suddenly died today…

Bob Newhart, the acclaimed actor and comedian known for his memorable roles in Elf and Legally Blonde, has passed away at the age of 94.

Newhart first gained prominence as a comedian with frequent appearances on The Ed Sullivan Show. He soon transitioned to acting, featuring in films such as Catch-22 and The Alfred Hitchcock Hour. His voice was also iconic as Leonard the Polar Bear in the classic holiday film Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and as the lead in Legally Blonde 2.

Born on September 5, 1929, in Oak Park, Illinois, Newhart was the son of Julia Pauline, an Irish housewife, and George David Newhart, who co-owned a plumbing supply business with German and Irish heritage. He grew up with three sisters and attended Roman Catholic schools in the Chicago area, including St. Catherine of Siena Grammar School and St. Ignatius College Prep. He graduated from Loyola University Chicago with a degree in business management in 1952. After graduation, Newhart was drafted into the US Army, where he served as a personnel manager during the Korean War until his discharge in 1954.

Though he initially pursued a career in law, leaving Loyola University Chicago School of Law due to ethical concerns, Newhart found his true calling in entertainment. His television career began with the short-lived NBC variety show The Bob Newhart Show, followed by his famous role as Chicago psychologist Robert Hartley on The Bob Newhart Show. He later starred as Vermont innkeeper Dick Loudon on Newhart.

Newhart’s career also included roles in two short-lived sitcoms in the 1990s: Bob and George & Leo. His film credits encompass a variety of genres, including Elf, Cold Turkey, Catch-22, and In & Out. He lent his voice to Disney animated classics The Rescuers and The Rescuers Down Under.

In addition to his acting achievements, Newhart won his first Primetime Emmy Award for his role as Professor Proton on The Big Bang Theory, where he appeared from 2013 to 2018.

Bob Newhart’s influence extended beyond television and film. His 1960 comedy album, The Button-Down Mind of Bob Newhart, topped the Billboard pop album chart and remains one of the best-selling comedy albums of all time. Its follow-up, The Button-Down Mind Strikes Back!, also achieved significant success.

Bob Newhart’s legacy as a pioneer in comedy and television will be remembered fondly by fans and peers alike. His passing marks the end of an era for a beloved figure in entertainment.