Saturday, January 20, 2018

Groundbreaking Writer/Comedian Bob Smith Has Died at 59


Bob Smith, who was the first openly gay comedian to appear on "The Tonight Show" and first to have an HBO comedy special, has died after a lengthy illness. He was 59 and had gallantly fought ALS for the past 12 years. In addition to his insightful stand-up, Bob was the author of numerous books including "Growing Up Gay: From Left Out to Coming Out" (1995 anthology), "Openly Bob" (1997),  "Way to Go, Smith" (1999) and the novels "Selfish and Perverse" (2007) and "Remembrance of Things I Forgot" (2011). In 2016, he released "Treehab: Tales From My Natural Wild Life," a collection of essays that covered a variety of subjects including his career in stand-up, his love of nature and his experience with ALS. Friends say he won his battle against the incurable disease because he never let it take his smile and sense of humor, and I second that emotion. RIP, Bob. You were as lovely as you were hilarious -- and I'm a sucker for a Great Lakes accent. xo




This set on "The Late Late Show With Craig Kilborn" holds up beautifully, and meant even more nearly two decades ago.



From the weekend I fell for Bob.



The accolades pour in ...



Read Extra's obituary HERE.


UPDATE: Bob was honored with a New York Times obitutary, which you can read HERE.

4 comments:

VictorG said...

So sad to hear this news, Bob Smith was a trailblazer who broke through with laughter which stood him in good stead in his fight against ALS. I enjoyed all his books, most of which he kindly signed for us. What a charming talented man, my sympathies to his family and friends.

retropian said...

Very sad news.

jaragon said...

Funny guy- may he rest in peace

Starquenched said...

Such a insightful hilarious man! I always loved his comedy and insight. So sad he is gone, but glad he is finally free.....Rest easu Bob, you won't be forgotten honey. XO