US comedy legend Bob Newhart dies aged 94

In a statement, his publicist said the comedian had passed away at home following a series of short illnesses.

Loved for his deadpan delivery, Newhart was the star of TV series The Bob Newhart Show, and also guest-hosted Johnny Carson's Tonight Show 87 times.

But to Brits, he is probably best known for his appearances in iconic Christmas film Elf and the hit sitcom The Big Bang Theory.

In a statement, his longtime publicist Jerry Digney said Newhart began his career “toiling in Chicago as an accountant by day and moonlighting at night as a comedy performer and writer”.

Newhart was known for stand-up routines involving long stories punctured with funny statements throughout, with his publicist saying he was at the centre of a comedy "sea change."

Paying tribute on X, comedy film director Judd Apatow said: "Bob Newhart was the kindest most hilarious man.

"His brilliant comedy and gentle spirit made everyone he encountered so happy."

Actor Kaley Cuoco, who starred alongside Newhart on The Big Bang Theory, said on Instagram: "What a dream it was to witness the genius that was Bob Newhart.

"He was classy, kind, generous and absolutely hilarious."

Director and actor Paul Feig posted on X: "A brilliant standup & comedic actor, he was truly one of a kind.”

And film legend Jamie Lee Curtis posted on Instagram: “God, he was funny! Bob Newhart. You will be missed!”

Newhart is survived by his four children and numerous grandchildren.