Gene Shalit, the charismatic movie critic known for his pun-filled reviews and distinctive appearance, passed away at the age of 100, as confirmed by NBC News based on a statement from his family. Shalit, recognized for his bow ties and voluminous hair and moustache, had a long-standing presence on NBC’s Today show. His tenure at Today began in 1970, evolving into the role of arts editor in 1973, where he engaged in interviews with celebrities, critiqued books, and evaluated films. Although his involvement on the show diminished over time, he officially retired in 2010 at the age of 84, humorously remarking, “It’s enough already.”
Shalit’s on-screen persona was characterized by his quick wit and jovial demeanor, evident in his vibrant “Critic’s Corner” segments on Today. Sporting oversized glasses, unruly frizzy hair, and a prominent moustache, he often drew comparisons to a member of the Marx Brothers. Known for his entertaining and sometimes cheesy reviews, Shalit laced his critiques with puns and colorful language, aiming to match the exuberance of the films he analyzed.
Famed for his wordplay, Shalit’s reviews were peppered with clever puns tailored to each film’s title, exemplified by his witty comments on movies like Fargo, Ishtar, and The Silence of the Lambs. Early in his career, Shalit’s affinity for linguistic playfulness was evident in his column titled “What Shalit Be” in the University of Illinois’ student newspaper.
Despite facing occasional controversies, such as his controversial remarks about a character in Brokeback Mountain in 2005, Shalit maintained a sense of enthusiasm and joy in his reviews. Prior to his time on Today, he served as a film critic for Look magazine and contributed to Ladies’ Home Journal. Additionally, Shalit authored anthologies celebrating American humor and Hollywood wit.
Recognized for his unique style and appearance, Shalit became a target for parody, with portrayals of him appearing on Saturday Night Live and Family Guy. He shared his life with his wife Nancy, who passed away in 1978, and they were blessed with six children.
