Renowned movie critic Gene Shalit, known for his pun-filled reviews and distinctive appearance with bow ties and bushy hair, passed away at the age of 100, as confirmed by NBC News based on a statement from his family. Shalit joined NBC’s Today show in 1970 and later became its arts editor, conducting interviews with celebrities and critiquing various forms of entertainment. He retired in 2010 at the age of 84, expressing his decision with a simple “It’s enough already.”
Shalit, recognized for his humor and quirky style, infused his “Critic’s Corner” segments on Today with enthusiasm and wit. His reviews were not only entertaining but also cleverly crafted with puns and wordplay. Describing movies in his unique way, Shalit coined phrases like “fabularious” and “brilliantological humongousness of marvelosity” for films like King Kong.
From his early days writing for the University of Illinois student newspaper to his tenure at Today, Shalit’s love for language and entertainment remained constant. Despite facing criticism for his remarks on certain films, Shalit’s passion for cinema and humor shone through in his work.
In addition to his television career, Shalit was a published author and compiled anthologies celebrating American humor and Hollywood wit. His on-screen persona made him a target for parody on shows like Saturday Night Live and Family Guy.
Gene Shalit is survived by his six children, following the passing of his wife Nancy in 1978.