The Bob Newhart Show, a staple of 1970s television, ran on CBS from 1972 to 1978, and is a masterclass in low-key, character-driven comedy. Bob Newhart stars as Dr. Robert “Bob” Hartley, a Chicago psychologist, whose calm, reasonable demeanor is constantly tested by the eccentric patients, wacky friends, and occasionally unusual situations that come his way. What makes this program so enduring is its subtle humor. The laughs aren’t from over-the-top antics or outrageous scenarios; instead, they stem from the interactions between the characters and the dry, sardonic wit that is Bob’s trademark.
The supporting cast is just as important as the star. Suzanne Pleshette, as Bob’s wife Emily, is the perfect foil. She’s a school teacher with a wry sense of humor and can match her husband’s sarcasm beat for beat. Bill Daily plays Howard Borden, Bob’s goofy neighbor and airline navigator, providing a constant stream of oddball comments and observations. Peter Bonerz plays Dr. Jerry Robinson, a dentist with a healthy dose of neuroses, who is part of Bob’s group of friends. Marcia Wallace rounds out the core cast as Carol Kester, Bob’s receptionist whose personal life is often as turbulent as Bob’s patients’. The chemistry between these actors is what really elevates the program.
One of the show’s greatest strengths is the way it portrays ordinary people dealing with everyday concerns. It’s a window into the lives of a group of friends and colleagues in a 1970s urban setting and it feels relatable even today. Each episode is a self-contained story, usually involving one or more of Bob’s patients working through an issue, or one of Bob’s friends getting into some kind of unusual situation. The beauty of the show is in the way it manages to find the funny in these common, everyday circumstances. It’s a refreshing change from the more outrageous sitcoms that have come and gone. The charm is in the simplicity and the humor, allowing it to feel timeless and comforting.
The Bob Newhart Show is a CBS production.
Years ran: 1972 – 1978
Number of Episodes: 142
Creators: David Davis and Lorenzo Music
Cast: Bob Newhart, Suzanne Pleshette, Bill Daily, Peter Bonerz, Marcia Wallace.
