Legendary movie critic Gene Shalit, known for his witty puns and distinctive appearance with bow ties, bushy hair, and a large moustache, passed away at the age of 100, as announced by NBC News based on a family statement. Shalit joined NBC’s Today show in 1970 and later became its arts editor in 1973, where he interviewed celebrities and reviewed various entertainment mediums. Despite scaling back his role over the years, he retired in 2010, expressing his satisfaction with his long career.
Shalit’s on-screen persona was marked by his jovial nature and humorous “Critic’s Corner” segments on Today, characterized by his oversized glasses, wild frizzy hair, and a prominent moustache that made him resemble a Marx brother. His reviews were not only entertaining but also filled with clever wordplay and puns that endeared him to his audience and even Hollywood studios seeking positive endorsements.
Known for his creative play on words, Shalit’s reviews often incorporated puns related to the film’s title, such as his quips on movies like Fargo, Ishtar, The Silence of the Lambs, The Mummy, and The Men Who Stare at Goats. His love for wordplay was evident early on, even during his university days when he wrote a column titled “What Shalit Be.”
Despite his light-hearted approach, Shalit faced criticism in 2005 for his controversial remarks on the film Brokeback Mountain, where he referred to a character as a “sexual predator.” Following backlash, Shalit apologized for his comments. Prior to his time on Today, Shalit had a successful career as a film critic for Look magazine and also contributed to Ladies’ Home Journal.
Beyond his TV work, Shalit authored anthologies celebrating American humor and Hollywood wit. His unique style and appearance made him a target for parody on shows like Saturday Night Live and Family Guy. Shalit, who was married to Nancy until her passing in 1978, leaves behind a legacy that has shaped entertainment criticism for generations.