Tommy Smothers was an American comedian, actor, composer, and musician, best known as half of the musical comedy duo the Smothers Brothers, alongside his younger brother Dick. Born on February 2, 1937, in New York City, Tommy’s career spanned over five decades, during which he entertained millions of people with his unique brand of comedy.
Tommy Smothers was a trailblazer in the world of comedy, pushing the boundaries of what was considered acceptable on television and in society. Along with his brother Dick, he hosted “The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour” on CBS from 1967 to 1969, which featured political satire and commentary that was often controversial. The show was eventually canceled due to its controversial content, but it paved the way for other comedians to tackle serious issues in their comedy.
Throughout his career, Tommy Smothers received numerous accolades for his work in the entertainment industry. He won three Emmy Awards, including one for his work on “The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour,” and was inducted into the Television Hall of Fame in 2003. He passed away on December 26, 2023, at the age of 86, leaving behind a legacy of laughter and social commentary that will be remembered for years to come.
Key Takeaways
- Tommy Smothers was a prominent American comedian, actor, composer, and musician, best known for his work in the musical comedy duo the Smothers Brothers.
- He was a trailblazer in the world of comedy, pushing the boundaries of what was considered acceptable on television and in society, and hosted “The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour” on CBS from 1967 to 1969.
- He received numerous accolades for his work in the entertainment industry, including three Emmy Awards and induction into the Television Hall of Fame in 2003.
Early Life and Career
Birth and Family Background
Tommy Smothers was born on February 2, 1937, at the Fort Jay army post hospital on Governors Island in New York City. He was the son of Ruth (née Remick), a homemaker, and Major Thomas B. Smothers, a U.S. Army officer who died as a prisoner of war of the Japanese in April 1945. 1
Entrance into Comedy
Growing up, Tommy had a natural inclination towards entertainment. He began his career in comedy as a writer for the Steve Allen Show in the early 1960s. He later became a performer on the show and used his talents to create a variety of characters and skits that would become popular with audiences. 2
Partnership with Dick Smothers
Tommy’s younger brother, Dick Smothers, also had a love for comedy and entertainment. Together, they formed the iconic comedy duo, The Smothers Brothers. They first gained national attention with their appearances on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson in the mid-1960s. Their unique blend of folk music and comedy became a hit with audiences, and they soon landed their own television show, The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour, which aired from 1967 to 1969. 3
Overall, Tommy Smothers’ early life and career in comedy laid the foundation for his success as a performer and writer. His partnership with his brother, Dick, would go on to become one of the most iconic duos in comedy history.
Professional Achievements
The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour
Tommy Smothers, along with his brother Dick, was a part of the popular comedy duo, The Smothers Brothers. They initially wanted to be folk musicians, but they started adding comedy bits to their act and soon became famous for their comedic performances. They were known for their satirical and political humor, which was often controversial.
In 1967, CBS gave the Smothers Brothers their own television show, The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour. The show was a huge success and became known for its political satire and commentary. The show’s writers included some of the most talented writers of the time, such as Steve Martin, Rob Reiner, and Bob Einstein. The show was canceled in 1969 due to its controversial content, but it remains a landmark in television history.
Activism and Controversy
Tommy Smothers was not afraid to speak his mind, and his political activism often got him into trouble. He was an outspoken critic of the Vietnam War and used his platform on The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour to voice his opinions. He also supported civil rights and was a vocal opponent of censorship.
The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour was often the subject of controversy due to its political content. CBS censored several of the show’s segments, which led to a public battle between the Smothers Brothers and the network. Despite the controversy, the show remained popular and influential.
Awards and Honors
Tommy Smothers and his brother Dick were inducted into the Television Academy Hall of Fame in 2003 for their contributions to television. They were also awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1993.
In addition to his television work, Tommy Smothers was also a talented musician. He played several instruments, including the guitar and banjo, and released several albums throughout his career. He was known for his comedic songs, which often featured political and social commentary.
Tommy Smothers’ legacy as a comedian, musician, and political activist continues to influence and inspire generations of performers.