Gene Shalit, known for his distinctive walrus mustache and love for witty reviews, was a film critic on NBC’s “TODAY” show for four decades. He passed away Friday at the age of 100, his family announced.
Beginning his career at “TODAY” in 1970 as a part-time contributor, Shalit transitioned to a full-time role three years later, becoming a renowned movie reviewer. He shared his insights on summer blockbusters and award contenders until retiring in 2010.
Shalit captivated audiences with his colorful bowties and playful use of language. In his “Critics Corner” segment, he often used puns and cheeky phrases, which endeared him to millions. His memorable review of the 1991 horror film, The Silence of the Lambs, described it as “a terrific yarn.”
Known for honest critiques, Shalit was candid when films disappointed him. He humorously dismissed X-Men as a movie “not to be taken seriously.” Similarly, he called Judd Apatow’s Funny People “passable.”
Besides reviewing films, Shalit interviewed celebrities like Oprah Winfrey and Harrison Ford. His interviews ranged from serious questions to amusing ones, as seen when he asked Kermit the Frog about marriage plans with Miss Piggy.
Shalit started in print journalism as the senior film critic for Look Magazine and wrote for the “What’s Happening?” page in Ladies Home Journal for 12 years. His work appeared in The New York Times, Cosmopolitan, TV Guide, and other publications.
From 1969 to 1982, Shalit composed a daily “Man About Anything” essay for NBC’s radio network. He also appeared on game shows “What’s My Line?” and “To Tell The Truth.”
Born on March 25, 1926, in New York and raised in New Jersey, Shalit’s early interest in journalism led him to create his school’s first newspaper, The Spotlight. He later contributed to his high school newspaper’s humor column.
A graduate of the University of Illinois in 1949, Shalit made his mark as a sports editor and columnist for The Daily Illini. He worked as a reporter in the Twin Cities and freelanced for the Associated Press.
Shalit’s fame peaked as an engaging on-air presence for the “TODAY” show, mixing entertainment with humor and improvisational antics. He bid farewell in 2010, leaving a lasting impact. Meredith Vieira noted, “He is the ‘TODAY’ show.”
In later years, Shalit stepped back from public life. He was married to Nancy Lewis for 28 years until her passing in 1978.
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