Tom Smothers, half of the Smothers Brothers comedy duo, dead at 86
said in a statement that Tom was “not only an extraordinary comedic talent, who, together with his brother Dick, became the most enduring comedy duo in history, entertaining the world for over six decades — but was a true champion for freedom of speech, harnessing the power of comedy to push boundaries and our political consciousness.”“Tom was a true pioneer who changed the face of television and transformed our culture with The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour, whichsatirized politics, combated racism, protested the Vietnam War, and led the way for ‘Saturday Night Live,’ ‘The Daily Show,’ today’s network late night shows,and so much more,” Gunderson, who has helped preserve and showcase the Smothers Brothers career and legacy, continued.“We were proud to bring Tom and Dick out of retirement and reunite them on stage in 2019 to celebrate their legendary careers, and we are honored to preserve Tom’s remarkable work and legacy here at the National Comedy Center for generations to come.”A private memorial service for family and friends is set to take place sometime in 2024. Dick and his wife, Marie, have requested memorial donations honoring Tom to be made to the National Comedy Center.Tom is survived by his children, Bo and Riley Rose Smothers, grandson Phoenix, Marcy Carriker Smothers, sister-in-law Marie Smothers, and several nephews and a niece.