We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Tom Smothers, one-half of the iconic comedy duo, the Smothers Brothers. Tom, aged 86, bravely fought cancer and peacefully passed away at his home in Sonoma County, California, on Tuesday. His loving family surrounded him during his final moments.
His brother, Dick Smothers, aged 84, shared his deep affection and appreciation for Tom, describing him as not just a loving older brother, but also a one-of-a-kind creative partner. Together, they spent over 60 years both on and off stage, building a relationship filled with love and respect. Their bond was truly something special.
In memory of Tom Smothers, Dick and his wife, Marie, have requested that memorial donations be made to the National Comedy Center. It is a fitting tribute to a man who dedicated his life to bringing laughter and joy to people across the world.
The Journey of the Smothers Brothers
The Smothers Brothers’ journey began in 1959 when Tom and Dick started performing together. Initially aspiring to be folk musicians, Tom soon discovered that his comedic talent shone brighter than his musical abilities.
Their transition from folk music to comedy was serendipitous. It all started during performances in Aspen, where Tom would make up introductions and repetitively try new things. Their comedic partnership quickly gained recognition, leading to Tom’s television debut on The Steve Allen Show in 1961.
Their big break came when they landed their own CBS sitcom, The Smothers Brothers Show, from 1965 to 1966. However, their most significant success came with The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour, which debuted in 1967.
The Impact of The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour
The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour was groundbreaking television. Not only did it feature performances by iconic bands like The Who and Buffalo Springfield, but it also challenged the establishment and tackled pressing political issues, including opposition to the Vietnam War.
Despite facing controversy and clashes with network censors, the Smothers Brothers fearlessly poked fun at President Nixon, featured controversial religious sermons, and even performed anti-Vietnam War songs. Their sketches and satire shook the television landscape and paved the way for satirists like Jon Stewart, Stephen Colbert, and Samantha Bee.
The Battle Against Censorship
The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour faced a sudden cancellation in 1970, with the network accusing them of failing to meet censor deadlines. During this time, the Nixon administration had requested content monitoring by the FCC.
The brothers fought back and sued CBS for $31 million in damages. While they ultimately received $775,000, their legal battle against CBS was immortalized in the film, “Smothered: The Censorship Struggles of the Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour.”
A Lasting Legacy
Following the cancellation, Tom and Dick pursued separate career paths before reuniting in 1978 for the Broadway play “I Love My Wife.” They continued performing at various venues across the United States, spreading laughter wherever they went.
Tom Smothers also ventured into acting during the 1990s and 2000s, making appearances in shows like “Suddenly Susan” and “The Informant.” Even “The Simpsons” couldn’t resist his comedic charm, as he lent his voice to an episode in 2009.
Tom Smothers will forever be remembered as a true champion for freedom of speech. His legacy lives on through the power of comedy to challenge societal norms and inspire change.
Honoring Tom Smothers at the National Comedy Center
The National Comedy Center, located in Jamestown, New York, stands as the official cultural institution dedicated to comedy. It honors the remarkable careers and legacies of the Smothers Brothers, preserving their work for future generations to enjoy.
Tom Smothers is survived by his children Bo and Riley Rose Smothers, grandson Phoenix, wife Marcy Carriker Smothers, sister-in-law Marie Smothers, and several nephews and a niece. He is predeceased by his son Tom and sister Sherry Smothers.
As the world mourns the loss of Tom Smothers, let us remember his invaluable contributions to comedy and his enduring legacy as part of the beloved Smothers Brothers. Their laughter and inspiration will continue to bring joy to generations to come.
