Iconic American Comedy Legend Passes Away At 86

Tommy Smothers of the iconic American comedy duo the “Smothers Brothers” has passed away at 86 following a private battle with cancer. His younger brother Dick, 84, who entertained generations of Americans alongside his brother, announced the news on Wednesday to an outpouring of support.

Fellow comedian Roseanne Barr called Smothers a mentor and a “genius” in her farewell: “THANK YOU, GREAT MIND!!”

All hail-a genius has vacated this realm-mentor Tommy smothers RIP-THANK YOU, GREAT MIND!!

— Roseanne Barr (@therealroseanne) December 28, 2023

Conservative radio host Larry Elder took to X to share his condolences, lauding Smothers as “Brilliant, funny, talented, cutting edge.”

R.I.P. Tommy Smothers,

Brilliant, funny, talented, cutting edge. #TomSmothers pic.twitter.com/dBPn4AZCI4

— Larry Elder (@larryelder) December 28, 2023

The Hollywood Reporter reports:

Tom Smothers, the countercultural comedy icon admired for the 1960s variety program he created and hosted with his younger brother, Dick, and for the tenacity he displayed in frequent clashes with CBS censors, has died. He was 86.

Smothers died Tuesday at his home in Santa Rosa, California, after a battle with cancer, his brother announced in a statement shared with The Hollywood Reporter by the National Comedy Center.

“Tom was not only the loving older brother that everyone would want in their life, he was a one-of-a-kind creative partner,” Dick, 84, said. “I am forever grateful to have spent a lifetime together with him, on and off stage, for over 60 years. Our relationship was like a good marriage — the longer we were together, the more we loved and respected one another. We were truly blessed.”

The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour ran from February 1967 until April 1969, when the pair were fired after 72 episodes (and with their show in the top 10 and already renewed for a fourth season).

Rest in peace, Tommy Smothers.

REACTIONS:

Tommy Smothers had an enormous heart for others.

Sending love to his brother Dick and the Smothers family as they gratefully remember an irreplaceable, brilliantly shining light.

Rest in Peace, dear Tommy.

— RUTH BUZZI (@Ruth_A_Buzzi) December 28, 2023

So long Tommy Smothers. One of the funniest people I have ever encountered on and off screen.

An anti war advocate, Tom also played guitar with John Lennon on the track for Give Peace A Chance. pic.twitter.com/JV9l5bdBkg

— Danny Deraney (@DannyDeraney) December 27, 2023