To the Editor: When I learned of Bob Newhart’s death, I realized it might be hard for some to believe that this fine gentleman was an almost daily visitor to my family-owned Bel Air Camera in Westwood for the better part of 60 years.
Although Mr. Newhart was one of our first loyal charge account customers, it wasn’t until the last 20 years or so that I became most aware of his visits.
Sometimes he didn’t come to buy, he would just park in our parking lot, come in to talk to the salesman, and then relax with a book before having lunch at the diner across the street.
I also stopped by the store frequently over the past few years and was always happy to see him. I fondly recall one particular interaction.
Recently, I was asked to watch his 5-minute skit online, which I watch over and over again whenever I want to laugh. When I told him about it, he beamed and happily told me, “It’s everyone’s favorite!”
So, if you’re a longtime fan, or you’ve never seen or heard of him and are curious, I suggest following his recommendation and searching for his skit, “Stop It.”
In fact, there’s some very good advice in this movie, plus watching it is a great way to show your appreciation for comedic genius.
Patricia Herskovic, Los Angeles
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To the Editor: Many years ago I was at a Radio Shack store in Westwood, and Bob Newhart was in front of me in line. I told him I didn’t want to bother him, but I wanted him to know that my two sons had his son, Tim, as their history teacher at school and loved him.
He actually got teary-eyed as he told me what it meant to him to hear his child’s story, and it was a brief but meaningful exchange I’ll never forget.
Michelle Adashek, Los Angeles