Gene Shalit, longtime 'Today' show movie critic, dies at 100
The beloved arts reporter and critic, famous for his puffy hair, handlebar mustache, and pun-filled reviews, has passed away at the age of 100
Gene Shalit, the longtime movie critic and arts reporter for the "Today" show, has died at the age of 100. Shalit was a beloved and highly recognizable figure on the morning program, known to viewers for his distinctively mussed-up, puffy hair and his oversized handlebar mustache.[1][2]
Shalit first joined the "Today" show in 1970, eventually being named the program's arts editor in 1973. Over a career that spanned four decades on the morning show, he reviewed both books and films, sharing his critiques with audiences.[1][2]
In addition to his memorable appearance, Shalit was well-known for his love of puns and wordplay. This signature style was evident in his reviews, such as when he wrote that the film "The Silence of the Lambs" "may be all wool, and a yard wide, but it makes a terrific yarn."[1][2]
