 Writer and director Judd Apatow writes on social media that Newhart was the kindest, most hilarious man. His brilliant comedy and gentle spirit made everyone he encountered so happy. Jamie Lee Curtis writes that, God, Newhart was funny, and they will be laughing wherever people go when they leave us. And the Big Bang Theory co-creator Bill Prady says it's hard to explain how important Newhart was to every comedian and comedy writer who came after him. Working with him, ever so briefly, was one of the greatest joys and honors of his life. The Time, 657.