Tom Smothers, one-half of the iconic Smothers Brothers comedy duo and co-host of “The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour,” has passed away at the age of 86 after battling cancer. The show, which premiered in 1967, was a groundbreaking program that challenged social norms and tackled controversial subjects such as the Vietnam War. Despite facing censorship and network battles, the Smothers Brothers found a devoted audience among young baby boomers who appreciated their satirical sketches and comedic commentary on the era’s counterculture. Tom Smothers’ passing is a loss for the comedy world, but his legacy will be remembered for his dedication to freedom of speech and his ability to entertain audiences for over six decades.
https://apnews.com/article/tom-smothers-dies-smothers-brothers-3e1727faf1b6469da7b2cfc7b2874c56