Renowned comedy and acting legend Bob Newhart has experienced a profound loss, as his wife, Ginnie Quinn Newhart, passed away in April 2023. Bob Newhart, celebrated for his iconic roles in television series like The Bob Newhart Show, Elf, The Librarian, and The Big Bang Theory, is now a widower.
The family shared their grief through a statement on Twitter, expressing their deep sadness over the loss of Ginnie Quinn Newhart. She had battled illness for an extended period. The statement described her as their rock and conveyed their profound longing for her.
Bob Newhart and Ginnie had been married for an impressive 60 years. They first crossed paths on a blind date arranged by their friend and fellow comedy icon, Buddy Hackett, in 1962, and they subsequently married in 1963.
Throughout Bob Newhart’s television career, Ginnie was a steadfast presence by his side. She was there during his portrayal of clinic psychologist Bob Hartley in The Bob Newhart Show from 1972 to 1978 and throughout his tenure as innkeeper Dick Loudon in Newhart from 1982 to 1990.
Ginnie’s contributions even extended to the iconic finale of the Newhart series, where it was revealed that everything had been a dream, and Dick Loudon was a creation of Bob Hartley’s imagination. This twist remains one of television history’s most beloved moments.
The couple frequently appeared together, even on the 1970s game show Tattletales. They had four children: Robert, Tim, Jennifer, and Courtney, as well as grandchildren.
Bob Newhart, when reflecting on his marriage, expressed no regrets but mentioned a desire to have married Ginnie earlier if financial circumstances had allowed. He noted that when his first record became a number one hit, he lacked someone to share that achievement with, and marrying Ginnie sooner would have been ideal.
This news is profoundly heartbreaking, and our thoughts and condolences go out to the Newhart family and all those affected by the loss of Ginnie Newhart.