Robert William Newhart is widely known and respected as an American comedian and actor. He started his profession in 1958, and over the years, he has managed to attract an audience and large followers. Today’s post shares details about his life. We will begin with his biography and early life to understand him more. We will also talk about his career and family. Stick around to learn more about Robert William Newhart.
Biography and Early Life of Robert William Newhart
Robert William was born on September 5, 1929. He was born at West Suburban Hospital in Oak Park, Illinois. He is the son of George David Newhart and Julia Pauline. His mother worked as a housewife, and she was of Irish descent. Her father was a co-owner of a plumbing and heating-supply business and was of German and Irish descent.
Newhart had three siblings, and they were all sisters. His eldest sister, Joan Michael, was born in 1927 and died in 2018. The other sister is Pauline Newhart, born in 1935 and died in 2020. The youngest sister, Virginia Brittain, was born in 1937 and is still alive.
Growing up, Newhart attended Roman Catholic Schools in Chicago. He joined Siena Grammar School, which is located in Oak Park. He also joined St. Ignatius College Prep school and graduated in 1947. Newhart proceeded with his education and joined Loyola University Chicago, where he graduated in 1952, having attained a bachelor’s degree in Business Management.
In the same year, Newhart was drafted into the United States Army, where he served as a personnel manager during the Korean War. He was, however, discharged in 1954. He then joined Loyola University Chicago School of Law but didn’t attain his law degree after he dropped out during his internship.
Newhart’s Professional Career
Newhart is mainly known for being a famous American actor and comedian. His fame is mainly because of his deadpan and how he employed a stammering delivery style in his acts. Newhart began his career as a stand-up comedian and later transitioned into TV acting.
Over his profession, Newhart has received different awards, including three Grammy Awards, a Golden Globe Award, and an Emmy Award. He has been honored for his unique and lovable humor. Although he started his profession in the 50s, his main fame met him in 1960 after he recorded his comedy album. He quickly became a bestseller and appeared number one on the Billboard Top Album chart. His album remains 20th among the bestselling comedy albums of all years.
Newhart has released different comedy albums, and most have been successful, gaining different spots on various rankings. He even hosted The Bob Newhart Show in 1961, which did well. He then moved to star as a Chicago psychologist in his The Bob Newhart Show, which aired from 1972 to 1978.
Newhart has also had two short-lived sitcoms in the 90s and acted in various films, such as Cold Turkey, George and Leo, Elf, etc. Newhart is decorated in the acting industry, and his work remains legendary.