10 Classic Bob Newhart Stand-Up Bits That Still Make Us Laugh

Bob Newhart, the master of deadpan comedy, has been making audiences laugh for over six decades. His unique style, characterized by one-sided telephone conversations and a stammering delivery, has left an indelible mark on the world of comedy. In this post, we’ll revisit 10 of Newhart’s most timeless stand-up routines that continue to tickle our funny bones years after their debut.

1. The Driving Instructor

In this classic routine, Newhart imagines Abe Lincoln consulting with a modern-day advertising agency about his Gettysburg Address. The clash between Lincoln’s eloquence and the ad executives’ attempts to “jazz it up” is comedy gold.

One of Newhart’s most beloved bits, “The Driving Instructor,” features him as a nervous driving teacher giving instructions to a student driver named Mrs. Webb. The hilarity ensues as he tries to remain calm while guiding her through increasingly chaotic traffic situations.

2. Abe Lincoln vs. Madison Avenue

3. The Submarine Commander

Newhart takes on the role of a World War II submarine commander trying to sink an enemy ship. His deadpan delivery as he deals with an incompetent crew and absurd situations makes this bit unforgettable.

4. The Grace L. Ferguson Airline (and Storm Door Co.)

This routine introduces us to the world’s least reliable airline, complete with a pilot who’s afraid of heights and a co-pilot who can’t read. Newhart’s portrayal of a harried customer service representative trying to explain these quirks is priceless.

5. King Kong

Newhart reimagines the classic monster movie from the perspective of the police officer who has to file a report about King Kong climbing the Empire State Building. His matter-of-fact description of the bizarre event is comedy at its finest.

6. The Retirement Party

In this bit, Newhart plays a man giving a retirement speech for a co-worker he clearly despises. His thinly veiled insults and backhanded compliments, delivered with his signature stammer, are both cringe-worthy and hilarious.

7. Sir Walter Raleigh Introduces Tobacco to Civilization

Newhart portrays an executive at the “New World Tobacco Company” trying to explain the concept of smoking to his skeptical boss. The routine brilliantly highlights the absurdity of the habit through Newhart’s bewildered delivery.

8. The Krushchev Landing Rehearsal

This Cold War-era routine features Newhart as a harried public relations man trying to organize Nikita Khrushchev’s visit to the United States. His attempts to navigate cultural differences and potential diplomatic incidents are both clever and laugh-out-loud funny.

9. Bus Drivers School

Newhart takes on the role of an instructor at a school for bus drivers, offering hilariously inappropriate advice on how to handle various situations. His deadpan delivery of outrageous suggestions makes this routine a standout.

10. The Boardroom

In this classic bit, Newhart plays a corporate executive pitching increasingly absurd product ideas to a boardroom. From “silent seltzer” to “whipped vodka,” each suggestion is more ridiculous than the last, showcasing Newhart’s gift for escalating comedic situations.

The Timeless Appeal of Bob Newhart

What makes these routines so enduring is Newhart’s ability to find humor in everyday situations and his skill at playing the straight man in absurd scenarios. His understated delivery and impeccable timing allow the audience to fill in the gaps, making them active participants in the joke.

Moreover, Newhart’s comedy often touches on universal themes and experiences, from workplace frustrations to the challenges of new technology. This relatability, combined with his clean, intelligent humor, ensures that his routines remain fresh and funny decades after they were first performed.

Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to Bob Newhart’s comedy, these classic stand-up bits are sure to bring a smile to your face. They serve as a testament to Newhart’s enduring influence on comedy and his status as one of the greatest stand-up comedians of all time.

So the next time you need a good laugh, why not revisit some of these classic Bob Newhart routines? You might just find yourself appreciating the genius of this comedy legend all over again.