Gene Shalit, Longtime 'Today' Show Movie Critic, Dies at 100

Article excerpt

Gene Shalit, the instantly recognizable movie critic of NBC's 'Today' show for over four decades, died at 100. Known for his signature puffy hair, oversized handlebar mustache, and relentless puns, Shalit became a fixture of American mornings, delivering film reviews with a theatrical flair that made him one of television's most distinctive personalities. His playful approach to movie criticism and willingness to embrace groaner wordplay gave him a unique place in pop culture history.