Gene Shalit, a well-known movie critic recognized for his pun-filled reviews and distinctive appearance on NBC’s “Today” show, passed away at the age of 100 as confirmed by NBC News. Shalit joined “Today” in 1970 and later became the arts editor in 1973, engaging in interviews with celebrities, book reviews, and film critiques. Despite his reduced role in later years, he retired in 2010 at the age of 84, expressing that he had had enough.
Shalit’s on-screen persona was characterized by his jovial nature and pun-filled “Critic’s Corner” segments, where he exuded enthusiasm. Recognizable by his large glasses, frizzy hair, and prominent moustache, he was often compared to a Marx brother. He aimed to entertain his audience just as much as the movies he reviewed, often incorporating playful wordplay and corny jokes into his critiques.
Famous for his witty reviews, Shalit’s puns often cleverly played on the titles of the films he evaluated. For instance, he coined phrases like “Go — don’t forego – Fargo” and “The Silence of the Lambs may be all wool and a yard wide but it makes a terrific yarn.” His love for wordplay was evident even during his college days, where he penned a column titled “What Shalit Be” for the University of Illinois student newspaper.
Shalit’s legacy extends beyond his TV presence, as he previously worked as a film critic for Look magazine and contributed to Ladies’ Home Journal. Additionally, he authored anthologies celebrating American humor and Hollywood wit. Despite facing some controversies during his career, such as his remarks on the film “Brokeback Mountain,” Shalit remained a beloved figure in the entertainment industry.
Known for his unique style and persona, Shalit’s impact was far-reaching, leading to caricatures of him on shows like “Saturday Night Live” and “Family Guy.” He shared his life with his late wife Nancy and raised six children.