Renowned movie critic Gene Shalit, known for his witty puns and distinctive appearance with bow ties and voluminous hair and moustache, 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 the arts editor in 1973, where he conducted celebrity interviews and reviewed various forms of entertainment. Despite scaling back his role on the show over the years, he officially retired in 2010 at the age of 84, expressing his desire to step away from the limelight.
Shalit’s segments, particularly the “Critic’s Corner” on Today, were known for their lively and humorous tone. His reviews were not only insightful but also sprinkled with clever wordplay and puns. For instance, when discussing the 2005 version of King Kong, Shalit coined phrases like “fabularious” and “brilliantological humongousness of marvelosity” to capture his enthusiasm for the film.
Throughout his career, Shalit’s reviews were marked by his unique style, often incorporating puns related to the film titles he critiqued. Aside from his work on Today, Shalit wrote for publications like Look magazine and Ladies’ Home Journal. He also curated anthologies celebrating American humor and Hollywood wit.
Despite facing criticism for some of his remarks, Shalit remained a beloved figure in the entertainment industry, recognized for his infectious enthusiasm and love for wordplay. His legacy extends beyond his reviews, as he was parodied on shows like Saturday Night Live and Family Guy. Shalit, who was married to Nancy until her passing in 1978, leaves behind a lasting impact on the world of film criticism and entertainment.