Gene Shalit, the irrepressible film and book critic whose puns and technicolor wardrobe woke up America for decades on NBC’s "Today" show, has died. His family said he passed away on Friday, June 12, 2026, at the age of 100 after what they called "an amazing life." With his famous bushy mustache, bright bow ties and groan-worthy one liners, Shalit became a morning TV ritual for generations of viewers.
According to AP News, Shalit’s family told NBC News that he "passed away peacefully today after 100 years of an amazing life." The outlet notes he first appeared on "Today" as a contributor in 1970, became the program’s arts editor in 1973 and delivered his brisk "Critic’s Corner" reviews until his retirement in November 2010.
From Magazines to "Critic's Corner"
Before he became a TV regular, Shalit made his mark in print, turning out criticism and commentary for magazines including Look, Cosmopolitan, TV Guide and Seventeen, as Daily Voice reports. That print pedigree helped him transform a short morning segment into something closer to a mini one man show, complete with fast takes, wordplay and a familiar rhythm that viewers came to expect with their coffee.
Celebrated at 100
Shalit turned 100 on March 25, a milestone that drew an on air salute from the "Today" team. Al Roker called him "just a legend," according to People. The magazine reported that Shalit spent his later years in the Berkshires, surrounded by family, and that he still kept up with his New York Mets.
Parodies, Peers and Parting Notes
Shalit’s unmistakable look and delivery made him a favorite target for comedy writers and impressionists. He was sent up on "Saturday Night Live" and SCTV and referenced on "The Critic" and "Family Guy," according to Daily Voice. He is survived by a daughter, Willa Shalit, AP News reports. Viewers and colleagues alike are likely to remember a voice and style that could make people groan and smile in the same breath.
