End of an Era for Comedy
The world of comedy mourns the loss of Tom Smothers, one half of the iconic duo, The Smothers Brothers. Tom’s brother and partner, Dick Smothers, expressed his deep sorrow at the passing of his lifelong companion, saying, “Tom was not only the loving older brother that everyone would want in their life, he was a one-of-a-kind creative partner. I am forever grateful to have spent a lifetime together with him, on and off stage, for over 60 years.”
A Revolutionary Pair
The Smothers Brothers gained fame in 1967 with their groundbreaking show, “The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour.” Airing alongside the popular series “Bonanza,” their show broke barriers by tackling taboo topics such as the Vietnam War. Their witty humor and fearless commentary captivated audiences and made them household names.
Battles with Censorship
Their daring content didn’t come without consequences. Despite their success, CBS abruptly canceled the show in 1970 due to ongoing conflicts with network censors. This marked the beginning of a legal battle between the brothers and CBS that would last for years. Eventually, the Smothers Brothers were awarded $775,000 in a lawsuit against the network.
Unafraid to Speak Truth
Tom Smothers was known for his outspoken nature and his unwavering commitment to speaking out against injustice. In his acceptance speech at the 2008 Emmy Awards, he boldly proclaimed, “It’s hard for me to stay silent when I keep hearing that peace is only attainable through war.” He dedicated his award to those who fearlessly challenge authority and refuse to be silenced.
A Legacy of Controversy and Laughter
The Smothers Brothers will forever be remembered for their boundary-pushing humor. Their controversial jokes, such as their playful take on Easter and their performances with singer Pete Seeger, brought laughter and provoked thought. Their impact on comedy and their unwavering commitment to free expression will continue to inspire generations to come.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.