Tom Smothers, one half of the iconic Smothers Brothers performing duo, passed away at the age of 86. His death marks the end of an era in comedy and entertainment. Tom, along with his brother Dick, brought laughter and joy to millions of people around the world.
The Smothers Brothers were known for their unique blend of music and comedy. Their witty banter and playful interactions on stage captivated audiences for decades. They pushed boundaries with their satirical humor, often tackling controversial topics such as politics and social issues.
Tom's comedic genius was evident in his ability to deliver punchlines with impeccable timing. His quick wit and clever wordplay made him a master of his craft. Together with Dick, they created a dynamic that was unmatched in the industry.
Tom and Dick Smothers were never shy about using their platform to needle authority, in any way possible in staid, confrontation-averse 1960s media.
After it debuted in the fall of 1967, CBS famously pulled the plug on “The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour” in April 1969 because of their content consistently poking fun of the powerful and boosting Vietnam War critics and civil rights proponents.
Dick Smothers said his brother died peacefully on Tuesday at home with his family, according to the National Comedy Center statement. His death followed a recent battle with lung cancer, which was diagnosed at stage II.
Tom and Dick Smothers broke new ground with their hit show, "The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour," which aired on CBS and won an Emmy in 1969.
As folk singers and comics, the brothers conjured laughs and stirred controversy. Tom Smothers played guitar and Dick Smothers played bass as both delivered zingers on a range of topics. They were known for a trademark sibling rivalry bit and the accompanying one-liner, "Mom liked you best!"
In a 2010 interview with CNN, David Bianculli, author of the book “Dangerously Funny: The Uncensored Story of ‘The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour,’” said that looking back the series was relatively mild by modern standards, but considered controversial given the family friendly landscape of the era.
“There was nothing that was serious on TV in prime time,” Bianculli said.
Bianculli said Tom Smothers “was the one who fought most of the battles,” something he confirmed in “The Sixties.”
“They said that the social subjects we touched on were not appropriate for the 9 o’clock family viewing hour,” Dick Smothers recalled. “They came up with any excuse to make it difficult.”
Smothers’ survivors include Marcy Carriker Smothers, his children Bo and Riley Rose Smothers, grandson Phoenix, sister-in-law Marie Smothers, and several nephews and a niece.
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