Newhart Cast List
- Politically Incorrect, Sara, Charlie HooverBill Maher, known for his incisive wit and controversial commentary, carved a unique niche in the entertainment industry with his acerbic political humor. Born on January 20, 1956, in New York City, he was raised in River Vale, New Jersey. Maher's interest in comedy was piqued during his university years at Cornell, where he studied English and History. After graduating in 1978, he ventured into stand-up comedy, eventually making appearances on The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson and The Late Show with David Letterman. Maher's breakthrough came in 1993 when he began hosting Politically Incorrect with Bill Maher, a late-night political talk show that ran on Comedy Central and later ABC. The show, which combined elements of political debate and comedy, earned 18 Emmy nominations throughout its run. Despite its cancellation in 2002 due to controversial remarks made by Maher post 9/11, it solidified Maher's reputation as an outspoken and fearless comic. In 2003, Maher found a new platform on HBO with Real Time with Bill Maher, which continues his tradition of blending political discussion with humor. The format allows for more in-depth conversations and has featured a wide array of guests, from politicians to celebrities. It has received multiple Emmy nominations and critical acclaim for its unfiltered examination of contemporary issues. Maher's impact extends beyond television; he has authored several books, produced a documentary, Religulous, and regularly performs stand-up comedy. His bold approach to comedy and politics ensures his place as one of the most influential voices in American entertainment.
- The Big Bang Theory, The Bob Newhart Show, NewhartBob Newhart, an American stand-up comedian and actor of grand repute, was born on September 5, 1929, in Oak Park, Illinois. He graduated from Loyola University of Chicago with a business degree. He initially ventured into accounting before realizing that his comedic wit outweighed the appeal of number-crunching. This realization led to the birth of one of the most distinctive voices in comedy, known for his deadpan delivery and slightly stammering speech. Newhart's recording career took flight with his groundbreaking comedy album, The Button-Down Mind of Bob Newhart. Released in 1960, it reached unparalleled heights by winning the Grammy Award for Album of the Year, a first for a comedy album. The success of this album catapulted Newhart into the television sphere, where he starred in two long-lasting sitcoms that further cemented his legacy, The Bob Newhart Show (1972-1978) and Newhart (1982-1990). Both of these sitcoms were loved for their clever humor, unique characters, and Newhart's ability to play the straight man amidst absurd situations. Beyond his successful sitcoms, Newhart's acting prowess also extended into film. He gave memorable performances in movies like Catch-22 (1970) and Elf (2003). His multifaceted contributions to comedy and acting garnered him several accolades, including the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor in 2002 and induction into the Television Hall of Fame in 1993. Through decades of laughter and timeless performances, Bob Newhart's influence continues to reverberate, leaving a lasting impression on the landscape of American entertainment.
- Newhart, Misfits of ScienceJennifer Holmes (born August 23, 1955, in Seekonk, Massachusetts) is an American television actress. Holmes is best known for her role as Leslie Vanderkellen, a fabulously rich, world-class skier who takes the job of hotel maid "to find out what it's like to be average," on the first season of Newhart. She left the show after the first season and was replaced by Julia Duffy who portrayed Leslie's cousin, Stephanie Vanderkellen. Holmes also appeared in the 1979 slasher film The Demon starring Cameron Mitchell, and acted opposite Mitchell again in the 1982 film Raw Force. She also appeared in the TV movie versions of Hobson's Choice (1983) and Samson and Delilah (1984). In 1985, she starred in Misfits of Science, a short-lived television series about a group of superheroes who fight crime for a scientific think tank. In the 1980s, Holmes was also a guest star on many television shows, including KNIGHT RIDER[The Rockford Files]], Lou Grant, Fame, Webster, The Love Boat, Murder, She Wrote, Hart to Hart and Voyagers!, Tales of The Unexpected (TV series)
- Newhart, Designing Women, The DoctorsJulia Duffy (born Julia Margaret Hinds; June 27, 1951) is an American actress best known for playing Stephanie Vanderkellen on the sitcom Newhart (1983–90). For this role, she received seven Emmy Award nominations and a 1988 Golden Globe Award nomination. The role also won three Viewers for Quality Television awards for her, as well as five American Comedy Awards nominations. She is also notable for playing the original Maggie Campbell on Baby Talk (1991) and Allison Sugarbaker on Designing Women (1991–92).
- Newhart, Return to Peyton Place, King's CrossingMary Frann (born Mary Frances Luecke, February 27, 1943 – September 23, 1998) was an American stage, film and television actress. Frann is best known for her role as Bob Newhart's wife, Joanna Loudon, on the CBS sitcom Newhart, which aired from 1982 to 1990.
- The Andy Griffith Show, Three's Company, Fantasy IslandDon Knotts, born as Jesse Donald Knotts on July 21, 1924, in Morgantown, West Virginia, emerged as a celebrated figure in the world of entertainment. With humble beginnings as the youngest of four sons in a struggling family, Knotts' rise to fame is a testament to his perseverance and talent. A World War II veteran, he served in the U.S. Army before pursuing his passion for acting, starting his career in the late 1940s with minor roles in radio and television. However, it was his role as the comical yet lovable Barney Fife on The Andy Griffith Show that catapulted him to stardom, earning him five Emmy Awards. Knotts' prowess in comedy extended beyond television, solidifying his reputation in the film industry as well. His memorable performances in movies such as The Incredible Mr. Limpet, The Ghost and Mr. Chicken, and The Shakiest Gun in the West showcased his impeccable comedic timing and skill. Despite often being typecast as a nervous character, Knotts demonstrated versatility in his career, transitioning into dramatic roles in later years. He notably appeared in the critically acclaimed series Matlock, once again sharing the screen with Andy Griffith, and lending his voice to the animated series Scooby-Doo, as the quirky landlord, Mr. Furley. Don Knotts' impact on the entertainment industry extends well beyond his life span, as his comedic genius continues to inspire aspiring artists. He passed away on February 24, 2006, leaving behind a legacy of laughter and fond memories. From the small town in West Virginia to the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, Knotts' journey serves as an inspiration for many. His innate ability to make audiences laugh, paired with his humility and commitment to his craft, made him not just a well-respected actor, but a beloved figure in American popular culture.
- Newhart, Bosom Buddies, From the Earth to the MoonPeter Thomas Scolari (September 12, 1955 – October 22, 2021) was an American actor, best known for his roles as Michael Harris on Newhart (1984–1990) and Henry Desmond in Bosom Buddies (1980–1982). Scolari received three Emmy nominations for his work on Newhart and won the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Comedy Series for his recurring role as Tad Horvath on Girls in 2016.
- Mork & Mindy, Newhart, Grace Under FireThomas Gordon Poston (October 17, 1921 – April 30, 2007) was an American television and film actor. He starred on television in a career that began in 1950. He appeared as a comic actor, game show panelist, comedy/variety show host, film actor, television actor, and Broadway performer. According to USA Today Life editor Dennis Moore, Poston appeared in more sitcoms than any other actor. In the 1980s, he played George Utley opposite Bob Newhart's character on the CBS sitcom Newhart, receiving three Emmy Award nominations for the role.
- True Blood, Deadwood, NewhartWilliam Sanderson (born January 10, 1944) is an American character actor famous for his roles in Blade Runner (1982), Newhart (1982–1990), Deadwood (2004–2006, 2019) and True Blood (2008–2010, 2012).
- Concentration, Legends of the Superheroes, Bruno the KidEdward Leo Peter McMahon Jr. (March 6, 1923 – June 23, 2009) was an American announcer, game show host, comedian, trapeze artist, police officer, actor and singer. McMahon and Johnny Carson began their association in their first TV series, the ABC game show Who Do You Trust?, running from 1957 to 1962. McMahon then made his famous thirty-year mark as Carson's sidekick, announcer and second banana on NBC's The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson from 1962 to 1992. He also hosted the original Star Search from 1983 to 1995, co-hosted TV's Bloopers & Practical Jokes with Dick Clark from 1982 to 1998 and also presented sweepstakes for the direct marketing company American Family Publishers (not, as is commonly believed, its main rival Publishers Clearing House). McMahon annually co-hosted the Jerry Lewis MDA Telethon from 1973 to 2008. In the 1970s and 80s, he anchored the team of NBC personalities conducting the network's coverage of the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. McMahon appeared in several films, including The Incident, Fun With Dick and Jane, Full Moon High and Butterfly, as well as briefly in the film version of Bewitched. He also performed in numerous television commercials. According to Entertainment Weekly, McMahon is considered one of the greatest "sidekicks".
NewhartSteven Kampmann (born May 31, 1947) is an American actor, writer, and director. He was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He is best known for his role as Kirk Devane on the first two seasons of Newhart. Kampmann also had roles in The Rodney Dangerfield Show: It's Not Easy Bein' Me, L.A. Law, The Richest Cat in the World, Multiplicity, and Analyze That. Additionally, he was a writer for WKRP in Cincinnati. In 1981, he was nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Comedy Series for his work on WKRP in Cincinnati. His screenplay credits include Back to School, The Couch Trip and Stealing Home. In 2012, Kampmann wrote and directed BuzzKill, a film about a struggling writer who becomes famous when a serial killer steals his car and the newest draft of his script. Kampmann is married to actress Judith Kahan and they have four children, Christopher, Robert, William, and Michael.- The Golden Girls, Fantasy Island, Empty NestEstelle Getty (née Scher; also known as Estelle Gettleman; July 25, 1923 – July 22, 2008) was an American actress and comedian, who appeared in film, television, and theatre. She was best known for her iconic role as Sophia Petrillo on The Golden Girls from 1985 to 1992, which won her an Emmy and a Golden Globe, on The Golden Palace from 1992 to 1993, and on Empty Nest from 1993 to 1995. In her later years, after retiring from acting, she battled Lewy body dementia.
- NewhartTony Papenfuss (born March 26, 1950 in Robbinsdale, Minnesota) is an American television and film actor. Papenfuss is best known for his role as one of the brothers Darryl on Newhart. He was "my brother Darryl", the one with the straighter, darker hair. He reprised this role as a guest-star on an episode of Coach. Before his appearance on Newhart, he also had minor roles in Escape from New York and Firefox. After Newhart, Papenfuss guest starred on many television shows, including Seinfeld, Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, Murphy Brown, Roswell, and Providence. He also appeared in several films, including How to Kill a Mockingbird, Factotum, and Sweet Land. His most recent projects include The Completely Remarkable, Utterly Fabulous Transformation of a Regular Joe and Holiday Beach. Of his role in Newhart, John Voldstad, who played the other brother who never talked, said he and Papenfuss came up with imaginary scripts that represented what the brothers were thinking. The casting director "knew we could look like we weren't just standing there. We could look like we had something going on in our minds."After Newhart, Papenfuss toured with his co-stars William Sanderson and Voldstad. Voldstad also continues to act and appear at conventions; he and Papenfuss attended Altoona Day in May 2014. Voldstad said, "I talk to him pretty regularly. Me and Tony are like brothers."
- The Tick, Bobby's World, Alien NationJeff Doucette is an American actor who has carved out a distinctive place for himself in the entertainment industry. Born on November 25, 1947, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, he embarked on his acting journey at a young age. His early years were spent honing his craft in local theater productions, laying a solid foundation for his future career. Doucette's breakthrough came in the late 1970s when he started to make appearances in popular television shows, most notably in Bosom Buddies where he played the role of "Harvey P. Winston". His ability to portray diverse characters with ease led him to work in over 90 television shows including Newhart, Little House on the Prairie, and Desperate Housewives. In addition to his television roles, he also made an impact on the big screen, featuring in films like Splash, Sudden Impact, and Bedazzled. Over the course of his career, Doucette's performances have been recognized by various awards, highlighting his talent and versatility as an actor. Despite facing several health challenges, including battling cancer twice, he continued to be active in the industry, demonstrating his unwavering passion and dedication to his craft.
- The Drew Carey Show, Drew Carey's Green Screen Show, 3 SouthKathy Kinney (born November 3, 1954, Stevens Point, Wisconsin) is an American actress and comedian. She gained considerable popularity in the late 1990s for playing Mimi Bobeck, the outrageously made-up, flamboyantly vulgar, and vindictive nemesis of Drew Carey on the sitcom The Drew Carey Show. She had been involved with television, feature films, and stage work for years.
- Michael Lessac (born 1940) is a theatre, television, and film director and screenwriter. Lessac is also the Artistic Director of Colonnades Theatre Lab, Inc and of Colonnades Theatre Lab, South Africa. He is the Project Creator & Director of the international theatre piece, Truth in Translation.
- Highlander: The Series, Fantasy Island, Ben CaseyStella Stevens, born Estelle Eggleston on October 1, 1938, in Yazoo City, Mississippi, USA, is a renowned American actress and film director. Recognized for her sultry charisma and distinguished acting skills, Stella's journey from a Southern belle to a Hollywood sensation is truly inspiring. Her talent was apparent from her early years when she graced the stage at Memphis's Little Theatre, but true recognition came after she moved to California and began her film career. Stevens's debut performance in Say One for Me (1959) caught the attention of Hollywood, but it was her role in The Blue Angel (1959) that earned her a Golden Globe nomination for New Star of the Year. This catapulted her into the limelight, leading to starring roles in films such as The Nutty Professor (1963) with Jerry Lewis and The Courtship of Eddie's Father (1963). In 1970, Stevens expanded her creative horizons by directing as well as starring in The American Heroine, making her one of the first female directors in Hollywood. Beyond her acting and directing accomplishments, Stevens was also a successful model. She was Playboy magazine's Playmate of the Month in January 1960, which further bolstered her visibility and fame. Despite the ups and downs of her personal life, including a high-profile relationship with actor George Hamilton and a challenging bout with addiction, Stevens remained dedicated to her craft. With a career spanning over five decades, Stella Stevens is a testament to perseverance and talent, embodying the glamour and grit of Hollywood's golden age.
- The Bob Newhart Show, G.I. Joe: Sigma 6, Good MorningBorn on January 31, 1937, in New York City, Suzanne Pleshette was a prominent American actress renowned for her husky voice and dark beauty. Her parents, Eugene Pleshette, a manager of network radio at ABC, and Geraldine Kaplan, an artist, played a crucial role in shaping young Suzanne's career. She began studying acting at the prestigious Neighborhood Playhouse School of the Theatre under the guidance of Sanford Meisner, one of the most respected acting coaches in America. Her acting career launched with stage performances in Broadway productions like Compulsion and The Cold Wind and the Warm. However, Pleshette's big break came in 1958 when she appeared in the Alfred Hitchcock film, The Birds, which garnered her instant fame and recognition. Despite having roles in over 40 films, she is best remembered for her role as Emily Hartley on the popular television series, The Bob Newhart Show, where her comedic timing and chemistry with co-star Bob Newhart were highly praised. Throughout her journey in the entertainment industry, Suzanne Pleshette received several accolades that include four Golden Globe nominations and two Emmy nominations. She later expanded her professional horizon and made a successful transition to voice acting, lending her distinctive voice to animated characters in Disney's The Lion King II: Simba's Pride and Spirited Away. Despite facing personal hardships that included battling lung cancer, Pleshette continued to work until shortly before her passing on January 19, 2008, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire aspiring actresses.
- V, V: The Final Battle, Wizards and WarriorsThomas N. Hill (June 2, 1927 – April 20, 2009) was an American character actor and director on stage for decades before starting in film in the mid-1960s and on television in the 1980s. Born in Fort Wayne, Indiana in 1927, one of Hill's most prominent recurring roles was as the zany sidekick Jim Dixon on the 1980s TV series Newhart. Hill also appeared as King Baaldorf in the short-lived 1980s series Wizards and Warriors. His TV movie roles include Father Andrew Doyle in the 1984 NBC miniseries V: The Final Battle. He had guest appearances on such shows as St. Elsewhere, Remington Steele, The Facts of Life, Married... with Children, Coach, and Law & Order. Hill's first feature film performance was in the 1965 film The Slender Thread. Other film credits include The Postman Always Rings Twice, Firefox (1982), and was well known for his role as Mr Coriander, the bookstore owner in The NeverEnding Story, as well as the 1990 sequel. Hill died of a motor neurone disease on April 20, 2009, aged 81 in Bloomington, Indiana.
- The Bob Crane Show, Goodnight, BeantownTodd Susman (born January 17, 1947) is an American actor.
