In the world of comedy, there are few partnerships as iconic as the Smothers Brothers. Today, we mourn the loss of Tom Smothers, who passed away at the age of 86 after a courageous battle with cancer. His brother, Dick Smothers, aged 84, announced Tom’s peaceful passing, surrounded by his loving family in Sonoma County, California.
Dick spoke affectionately of his brother, describing him as not only a loving older brother but also a one-of-a-kind creative partner. Their bond, built over 60 years of performing together, was filled with love and respect. Dick reminisced, “Our relationship was like a good marriage – the longer we were together, the more we loved and respected one another. We were truly blessed.”
Tom’s comedic genius brought laughter and joy to countless people around the world. To honor his memory, Dick and his wife, Marie, have requested that memorial donations be made to the National Comedy Center. This fitting tribute reflects Tom’s lifelong dedication to spreading laughter and happiness.
The journey of the Smothers Brothers began in 1959 when Tom and Dick started performing together. Originally aspiring to be folk musicians, they discovered Tom’s undeniable comedic talent. The transition from music to comedy was a serendipitous one, as Tom recalled, “It sort of became an argument.”
Their comedic partnership quickly gained recognition, leading to Tom’s television debut on The Steve Allen Show in 1961. Their big break came with their own CBS sitcom, The Smothers Brothers Show, from 1965 to 1966. However, it was The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour, which premiered in 1967, that showcased their groundbreaking talent.
The Comedy Hour featured performances by legendary bands like The Who and Buffalo Springfield. It was known for its edgy sketches that challenged the establishment and addressed pressing political issues, including opposition to the Vietnam War. The show sparked controversy, as network censors clashed with the brothers over its content. They fearlessly poked fun at President Nixon, featured controversial religious sermons, and even performed anti-Vietnam War songs while highlighting the riots at the 1968 Democratic National Convention.
The impact of The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour cannot be overstated. Their comedic blend of slapstick humor and political satire turned television upside down. Their pioneering style forged a path followed by satirists like Jon Stewart, Stephen Colbert, and Samantha Bee.
In 1970, the Comedy Hour faced a sudden cancellation by the network, citing failure to meet censor deadlines. While the brothers sued CBS for $31 million in damages, they ultimately received $775,000. The legal battle against censorship was later documented in the film “Smothered: The Censorship Struggles of the Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour.”
During the 1970s, Tom and Dick pursued separate career paths before reuniting in 1978 for the Broadway play “I Love My Wife.” They continued performing together at various venues, delighting audiences across the United States. In 1988, they briefly returned to CBS with a revival of The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour, which sadly lasted only 16 episodes.
Tom Smothers also ventured into acting during the 1990s and 2000s, making appearances in shows like “Suddenly Susan” and “The Informant.” His voice even graced an episode of “The Simpsons” in 2009.
Tom Smothers will forever be remembered as a true champion for freedom of speech. His legacy is tied to the power of comedy to challenge societal norms and bring about change.
The National Comedy Center, located in Jamestown, New York, holds a special place in honoring the remarkable careers and legacies of the Smothers Brothers. Tom’s contributions will be preserved for future generations to enjoy.
Tom Smothers is survived by his children Bo and Riley Rose Smothers, grandson Phoenix, his 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, his contributions to comedy, dedication to freedom of speech, and enduring legacy as one half of the beloved Smothers Brothers will continue to bring laughter and inspiration to generations to come.