In the latest issue of Closer Weekly, Bob Newhart dives deep into the iconic world of his beloved '70s sitcom, The Bob Newhart Show. It's been over four decades since the show first aired, yet its charm remains undiminished as it continues to captivate audiences in syndication. Bob plays a Chicago-based psychologist named Bob Hartley, while Suzanne Pleshette stars as his strong-willed wife, Emily. Together, they created a timeless sitcom that still resonates today.
The Bob Newhart Show was a trailblazer in many ways, and its subtle humor matched its star's dry wit perfectly. The series tackled tough subjects like mental illness and other societal taboos with grace and sensitivity. In an exclusive interview with Closer, Bob reveals, "We were the first married couple on TV to share a single bed. I didn’t see it as risky; I just thought it was about time someone did it." This bold move reflected the show's progressive nature, making it stand out in an era filled with traditional depictions of marriage.
One of the most memorable moments in the series was the introduction of TV's first openly gay character—a patient of Bob's portrayed by Howard Hesseman, who later became famous as a DJ in WKRP in Cincinnati. But that wasn’t the only star-making role on the show. Bob fondly recalls the array of rising talent who graced his couch over the years. "We had John Ritter, Sharon Gless, Loni Anderson, Morgan Fairchild, Pat Morita, and even Henry Winkler, before he became the legendary Fonz," he says with a chuckle.
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Bob on The Bob Newhart Show.
Behind the Scenes: A Closer Look at the Cast
The regular cast was filled with unforgettable characters. Bill Daily played Howard Borden, the Hartleys’ neighbor and an airline pilot. Peter Bonerz portrayed Jerry Robinson, Bob’s sarcastic dentist office mate, while Marcia Wallace brought Carol Kester, their flirtatious secretary, to life. Bob, now 88, remembers his co-stars fondly: "We all got along so well and supported each other. It was truly a wonderful time." The camaraderie and mutual respect among the cast members made the set a joyous place to work.
The Show's Success and Legacy
The Bob Newhart Show was a cornerstone of CBS' Saturday lineup during its six-season run, airing alongside iconic shows like All in the Family, M*A*S*H, The Mary Tyler Moore Show, and The Carol Burnett Show. Bob humorously refers to this lineup as "Murderers’ Row," likening it to the legendary 1927 Yankees baseball team. However, by 1978, Bob felt it was time to move on. "I was incredibly proud of the show, and I didn’t want it to lose its spark," he explains. "It wasn’t an easy decision, but I knew it was the right one." Looking back, Bob reflects, "It’s been an incredible journey, and I can tell you, it’s not over yet!"
For more stories about Bob and his incredible career, grab the latest issue of Closer Weekly, available at newsstands now—and don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter for exclusive updates!
