Stop It.

A month ago, comedy legend Bob Newhart passed away. I’m normally not particularly sentimental about the passing of celebrities because I didn’t actually know them, but after decades of seeing Bob Newhart deadpan his way through a scene, I felt a connection.

Whether he was “the everyman” character playing himself on “The Bob Newhart Show” or the legendary Papa Elf in “Elf”, Bob’s real-life persona and on-stage character appeared to be the same. His style of self-deprecating humor, calm delivery, and masterful comedic timing allowed him to delight audiences and create a life-long image as a “good guy.” He outlived other comedy legends, such as Don Rickles and Betty White, who were counted among his closest friends.

I met him once in L.A. years ago and he was every bit the former accountant and “aww shucks” guy you saw on TV. After mustering up the courage to say hello, I approached with the most unbelievably banal opening line, “Mr. Newhart. I’m a really big fan.” He replied, “Well, um, I don’t think you’re that big.” I laughed. He didn’t. I laughed again.

Whether it was on or off stage, George Robert Newhart was the same guy. He was an everyman. A lifelong Cubs fan and a no-nonsense kind of guy, who was surrounded by nonsense. And that was the subtle genius of characters like Professor Proton on Big Bang Theory and Dr. Magnus on NCIS.

My favorite skit was from 1997, on Mad TV, where Bob made an appearance as a therapist named Dr. Switzer. He charged $5 for a five minute therapy session. He promised to find the root cause of your problem and could fix it with two words. Stop it. 

In today’s crazy mixed-up world, this skit seems crazy. How could you solve everyone’s problem or fear or self-destructive tendency with just two words? Turns out, it might be just that easy.

Take 5 minutes and watch the video and don’t give me any excuses. “I’m too busy,” you say. Bob’s advice. “Stop it.”