Gene Shalit, Iconic Film Critic of the ‘Today’ Show, Passes Away at 100

Gene Shalit, the beloved film critic known for his vibrant personality and distinctive appearance, passed away on Friday at the age of 100. Shalit was a prominent figure on the NBC morning show “Today,” where he entertained audiences for four decades with his unique blend of humor and insightful movie reviews.

A Long-Standing Presence on ‘Today’

Shalit joined “Today” as a book reviewer in 1970 and quickly became a household name. In 1973, he succeeded Joe Garagiola as the show’s film critic. His lively segments, often featuring celebrity interviews and witty puns, provided a refreshing counterbalance to the more serious news of the day. Shalit’s “Critic’s Corner” became a staple of the show, where he shared his thoughts on the latest films, often with a humorous twist.

His family released a statement confirming his peaceful passing, noting that he had lived an “amazing life.” Shalit retired from “Today” in November 2010, leaving behind a legacy that resonated with both audiences and colleagues.

Memorable Reviews and Interviews

Shalit was known for his quick wit and playful critiques. His review of the 1987 film Ishtar famously concluded with the phrase, “Two words, Ishtar—ish horrible.” In his commentary on Face/Off (1997), he remarked that it was “a compelling acted, totally absurd, unbelievable, thoroughly entertaining movie.” His reviews often included clever puns, as seen in his take on The Silence of the Lambs, where he quipped that it “makes a terrific yarn.”

Beyond his reviews, Shalit was an engaging interviewer who had a knack for making celebrities feel at ease. He famously had Richard Burton read names from a phone book, showcasing the actor’s rich voice. Shalit’s interviews included a diverse array of stars, from Carol Channing to Drew Barrymore, often resulting in memorable moments filled with laughter.

A Cultural Icon

Shalit’s larger-than-life personality and distinctive style made him a cultural icon. His signature look, characterized by an oversized mustache and wild hair, led to numerous parodies. He was frequently imitated on shows like SCTV and Saturday Night Live, and even made appearances on The Muppets and Family Guy.

Born on March 25, 1926, in New York City, Shalit moved to Morristown, New Jersey, at a young age. His early interest in journalism began in grammar school, where he created the first newspaper, The Spotlight. He continued to hone his craft throughout high school, writing a humor column for the school paper.

Education and Early Career

Shalit attended the University of Illinois, where he spent six years earning his degree while serving as the sports editor for The Daily Illini. His writing career included contributions to various publications, including McCall’s and Look, before catching the attention of NBC News president Reuven Frank, who brought him onto “Today.”

During his tenure, Shalit also wrote for Ladies’ Home Journal, Cosmopolitan, and TV Guide, among others. He hosted a daily radio segment titled “Man About Anything” and made a cameo in the film Tootsie (1982).

Controversies and Legacy

Among the thousands of reviews Shalit delivered, one of the most controversial was his 2005 critique of Brokeback Mountain, where he labeled Jake Gyllenhaal’s character as a “sexual predator.” This comment drew criticism from the Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation, which accused him of promoting harmful stereotypes. Shalit’s son, Peter, defended him, asserting that the organization had mischaracterized his father’s views.

Shalit’s literary contributions included Khrushchev’s Top Secret Coloring Book and Laughing Matter — A Treasury of American Humor, showcasing his range as a writer and humorist.

Personal Life

In 1950, Shalit married Nancy Lewis, with whom he had six children: Peter, Willa, Andrew, Nevin, Emily, and Amanda. Nancy passed away from cancer in 1978, and Shalit chose not to remarry. His daughter Willa has made a name for herself as a theatrical and television producer.

As reported by www.hollywoodreporter.com.

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Published on 2026-06-13 03:02:00 • By FAME Delivered News Desk