Al Roker Mourns Death of 'Today' Icon Gene Shalit in Heartfelt Tribute
TV Insider • • entertainment
Key Points:
- Gene Shalit, a beloved movie critic and longtime contributor to the Today show, passed away peacefully at the age of 100, as announced by his family on June 12.
- Shalit began contributing to Today in 1970, joined full-time in 1973, and retired in 2010, becoming well-known for his "Critics Corner" segments featuring pun-filled reviews.
- Al Roker, a Today show meteorologist, paid tribute to Shalit on Instagram, highlighting his wit, intelligence, and distinctive appearance reminiscent of Mark Twain and Einstein.
- Fans and colleagues, including chef Chadwick Boyd and 20/20 co-anchor Deborah Roberts, shared condolences and fond memories of Shalit's impact on their lives and careers.
- Shalit's signature bushy hair, mustache, and cheeky personality made him an enduring icon and a cherished member of the Today family.