arts
Gene Shalit, longtime Today show movie critic, dies at 100
Beloved movie critic and arts reporter was known for bushy hair and mustache and affection for groan-inducing puns
TL;DR
- Gene Shalit, a movie critic and arts reporter for the Today show for over four decades, has died at 100.
- He joined the Today show in 1970 and became a regular arts contributor, known for his unique appearance and witty puns.
- Shalit played a significant role in the evolution of film criticism, moving it from traditional print media to television.
- His career began in magazines like McCall's and Look before transitioning to television.
- He was known for his memorable review style, often using wordplay and avoiding excessive plot spoilers.
- Shalit also made guest appearances on various TV shows and was parodied on Saturday Night Live.
- He is survived by his daughter, Willa Shalit.