Gene Shalit, iconic ‘Today’ show movie critic known for his mustache, dies at 100
Gene Shalit, the renowned movie critic and arts reporter for the “Today” show, has passed away at the age of 100. His family shared the news on a recent Friday, describing his departure as peaceful after a century filled with remarkable experiences.
Shalit began his illustrious career with “Today” in 1970, later taking the role of arts editor in 1973. He became known for his segment “Critic’s Corner,” where he offered his unique insights into film for nearly four decades. Upon his retirement in 2010, he stood as a significant figure among the last prominent film critics on national television.
Despite his distinct appearance, characterized by his iconic puffy hair and handlebar mustache, it was Shalit’s wit and intelligence that left a lasting impression on viewers. His producer for over 20 years remarked on his ability to entertain and educate, blending humor with critique in an engaging manner. This approach significantly contributed to changing the landscape of film criticism, moving it from predominantly print-based sources to the realm of television.
Shalit initially made his mark in print as an entertainment columnist for McCall’s magazine and later as senior film critic for Look magazine. His success in publications led to an offer from NBC, where he initially faced skepticism from executives unfamiliar with his unconventional appearance. He soon proved his critics wrong, establishing himself as a versatile and middle-ground critic, known for his clever puns and approachable style.
Over the years, Shalit reviewed numerous films, often in a lighthearted manner. He offered interesting commentary on a variety of genres and themes. His remarks ranged from praising “Enemy at the Gates” as a vivid historical depiction to expressing that the film “Brokeback Mountain” was “wildly overpraised.” One of his signature quirks was his playful use of language; for instance, he aptly described the title “The Men Who Stare at Goats” as “heard to bleat.”
His extensive career saw him engaging with industry peers and celebrities, including memorable interviews with John Belushi and Dan Aykroyd. While he enjoyed a distinguished presence on “Today,” he faced some criticism, notably from fellow anchor Bryant Gumbel, who suggested that some of Shalit’s work lacked timeliness and quality.
Born in New York and raised in Morristown, New Jersey, Shalit embraced his creative talents early, founding his grammar school’s first newspaper and honing his writing skills in high school. He graduated from the University of Illinois in 1949 and remained a significant force in entertainment journalism until his retirement.
Shalit leaves behind a legacy marked by his contributions to film criticism, an influence that transformed how audiences engage with cinema.
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