He invented the stand-up special and left an indelible mark on comedy with his unique style and nuanced humour

Bob Newhart, the comic celeb who passed away on Thursday at the age of 94, remains a towering figure in the world of comedy, a testament to his innovative spirit and enduring influence. Known for his groundbreaking 1960 album “The Button-Down Mind of Bob Newhart,” which won a Grammy, Newhart essentially created the format of the stand-up special. Remarkably, he achieved this monumental feat without prior nightclub experience, transitioning from a soft-spoken accountant to a comedy legend almost overnight.

Newhart’s comedic style was defined by his gentle, wry humour and slow, deliberate delivery. Unlike contemporaries such as Lenny Bruce or Mort Sahl, who were known for their rapid-fire wit and biting satire, Newhart’s charm lay in his exasperated, deadpan demeanour. A Roman Catholic from Chicago, he embodied Midwestern niceness, steering clear of anger or taboo-breaking in his routines.

During a conversation at his home to mark his 90th birthday, Newhart displayed the same humility and magnanimity that characterized his career. Reflecting on death with a mix of humour and grace, he even joked about a fellow comic who once accused him of theft, illustrating his light-hearted approach to life and rivalry.

Newhart’s early work, while often associated with the “sick comics” of his time, contained sharp political commentary, as seen in his famous routine where an advertising man advises Abraham Lincoln. This bit, while less subversive today, remains as funny and relevant, showcasing Newhart’s skill in critiquing societal norms through understated humour.

The true marvel of Newhart’s legacy is how well his work has aged. Unlike many comedians whose material loses relevance, Newhart’s routines still resonate. His influence is evident in the pregnant pauses of Ellen DeGeneres, who cites him as a key influence. His seminal TV series, “The Bob Newhart Show,” remains a classic, paving the way for shows like “Seinfeld” with its portrayal of a straight man amidst a cast of eccentrics.

Newhart’s later years saw him form a memorable comedic duo with Don Rickles, further cementing his legacy as a master of nuanced humour. His use of the phone in his routines exemplified his ability to engage audiences through suggestion and timing, letting listeners’ imaginations fill in the gaps.

His enduring appeal is rooted not in specific satirical targets but in the formal brilliance of his comedy. Even a 2014 tribute to Rickles showcased Newhart’s unique timing and self-deprecating humour. The iconic ending of his series “Newhart” in 1990, which called back to his previous show, demonstrated his knack for long-term comedic payoff.

Bob Newhart revolutionized the pace of comedy, building on the work of predecessors like Jack Benny. His mastery of timing and pauses created a musical quality in his reticence, contrasting with the rapid-fire style of other comedians. Despite network executives’ attempts to change his signature stammer, Newhart persisted, leveraging it to great success.

Living a long, fulfilling life, Newhart credited laughter for his longevity and happy marriage. His legacy teaches us that great comedy isn’t just about quick wit; it’s about taking the time to craft and deliver jokes that resonate deeply with audiences. Bob Newhart’s career is a testament to the enduring power of well-paced, thoughtful humour.