Renowned movie critic Gene Shalit, known for his witty puns and distinctive appearance with bow ties and a voluminous hair and mustache, passed away at the age of 100, as reported by NBC News. Shalit began his tenure on NBC’s Today show in 1970, eventually becoming the arts editor in 1973, where he conducted interviews with celebrities and critiqued various forms of entertainment. He retired in 2010 at the age of 84, humorously stating, “It’s enough already.”
Shalit’s humorous and lively “Critic’s Corner” segments on Today were a highlight, characterized by his exuberant personality and clever wordplay. His reviews were not only entertaining but also filled with puns that often cleverly played on the titles of the films he critiqued.
An avid lover of wordplay, Shalit’s talent for puns was evident from his early days, reflected in the title of his column in the student newspaper at the University of Illinois, “What Shalit Be.” Despite his extensive experience in critiquing films, Shalit maintained a sense of joy and enthusiasm in approaching each movie.
In 2005, Shalit faced criticism for his comments on a character in the film Brokeback Mountain, which he described as a “sexual predator,” leading to backlash from GLAAD, to which he later apologized. Prior to his time on Today, Shalit worked as a film critic for Look magazine and contributed to Ladies’ Home Journal.
Throughout his career, Shalit authored several anthologies celebrating humor and wit, showcasing his passion for entertainment beyond the realm of film criticism. His distinctive on-screen persona made him a target for parody, with appearances on Saturday Night Live and the animated series Family Guy.
Gene Shalit and his late wife Nancy had six children, leaving behind a legacy of humor and entertainment critique that endeared him to audiences and colleagues alike.