Tom Smothers.Photo:Frank Sabine/NBCU Photo Bank/NBCUniversal via Getty
Frank Sabine/NBCU Photo Bank/NBCUniversal via Getty
Tom Smothers, one half of the Smothers Brothers comedy duo, hasdied. He was 86.
The comedian died at his home on Tuesday following “a recent battle with cancer,” his brother and costar Dick Smothers announced in apress releasefrom the National Comedy Center.
“Tom was not only the loving older brother that everyone would want in their life, he was a one-of-a-kind creative partner,” Dick shared. “I am forever grateful to have spent a lifetime together with him, on and off stage, for over 60 years.”
He continued, “Our relationship was like a good marriage – the longer we were together, the more we loved and respected one another. We were truly blessed.”
Tom and Dick Smothers.Getty
Getty
TheNational Comedy Centerexecutive director Journey Gunderson also paid tribute to the late comedian, sharing, “Tom Smothers was not only an extraordinary comedic talent, who, together with his brother Dick, became the most enduring comedy duo in history, entertaining the world for over six decades – but was a true champion for freedom of speech, harnessing the power of comedy to push boundaries and our political consciousness.”
“Tom was a true pioneer who changed the face of television and transformed our culture withThe Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour, which satirized politics, combated racism, protested the Vietnam War, and led the way forSaturday Night Live,The Daily Show, today’s network late night shows, and so much more,” she added.
“We were proud to bring Tom and Dick out of retirement and reunite them on stage in 2019 to celebrate their legendary careers, and we are honored to preserve Tom’s remarkable work and legacy here at the National Comedy Center for generations to come,” the statement concluded.
Tommy Smothers & Dick Smothers during US Comedy Arts Festival in Aspen, Colorado, United States.Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic
Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic
The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hourpremiered on CBS in February 1967. The brothers showed off their musical and comedic chops on the one-hour variety series with Tom playing guitar and Dick performing with a stand-up bass.
During the show’s two-year run, the pair also showed their support of civil rights and opposition to the Vietnam War.
“There was never premeditation for anything we ever did,” Tom toldCBS Newsin July. “We never did it to get attention. We just did it. And if it got attention, I said, ‘I’ll do it again. Maybe we’ll get some more attention.'”
The variety show was ultimately canceled in April 1969 as CBS became increasingly concerned about the pair’s political takes.
The pair commemorated the 50th anniversary of their firing in 2019 with appearances at the National Comedy Center and Chautauqua Institution.
“It’s really an honor to be honored in this way,” Tom toldThe Associated Pressat the time. “At least we’re both alive and not having someone speak for us. We can mumble our own way through.”
The brothers also looked back at the controversy and being not be allowed to use certain phrases on camera including “sex education.”
“Don’t tell a comedian not to say a certain word. For sure they’ll do it,” Dick said. “The funny thing is, I look back at those things. They’re so benign, but at the time they were volatile.”
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A private memorial service for family and friends is planned for 2024. Dick and his wife, Marie, have requested memorial donations be made to theNational Comedy Center.
source: people.com
