Gene Shalit, the ultimate go-to movie critic of American films, who had appeared on Today show for over four decades passed away on Friday, June 12.
He lived a century of his life.
Shalit’s family has made the announcement stating, Shalit “passed away peacefully today after 100 years of an amazing life.”
Shalit turned 100 on March 25, Today, celebrated his birthday with his image on a Smucker’s jam jar, which is a network’s traditional way of honoring their on-screen talent.
Shalit emerged as a go-to media figure, credited to his innovative, pun-filled takes on American film.
His on-screen persona coupled with puffy hair, handlebar mustache, glasses and bow ties offered a complete package.
Who was Gene Shalit?
Shalit joined Todayshow as a contributor in 1970, three years later, assuming the role of arts editor in 1973, and produced his buzzing film reviews segment, Critic’s Corner.
He bid farewell to Today show in 2010; at the time Shalit was ranked as the last lamppost among high profile film critics on a national broadcaster.
Shalit’s journalism stint started in print, at leading publications like Ladies’ Home Journal and The New York Times.
Shalit was born in New York City but saw his upbringing in Newark and Morristown New Jersey, where his father run a pharmacy.
But at a very young age, his inspiring news sense led him to dive into ocean of journalism.
During his time in high school, he produced the first school paper The Spotlight.
Before Shalit went on to join Today show, he resumed writing in 1967 after spending some time on the NBC Radio Network.
Shalit married to Nancy Lewis and the marriage lasted for 28 years before she died from cancer in 1978. The couple shared six children, including Willa Shalit.
2026-06-13 11:44:00
