Gene Shalit, 'Today' Movie Critic, Dies at 100
Gene Shalit, the longtime movie critic for NBC's TODAY show, has died at the age of 100. His family shared the news with his longtime employer, saying he "passed away peacefully today after 100 years of an amazing life." Shalit began as a part-time book reviewer on the TODAY show in 1970 and was promoted to a full-time position with the network three years later, replacing Joe Garagiola.
He became NBC's most notable movie reviewer, often offering thoughts on summer blockbusters, awards contenders and other cinematic releases alongside co-workers including Bryant Gumbel, Jane Pauley, Matt Lauer and Katie Couric. He stood out on camera with a bushy mustache and colorful bow ties and used puns and unexpected turns of phrase to bring humor to his reviews.
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